Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly)

Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly) green plant with sharp, glossy, pointed leaves in close up.
Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly) with dense, waxy green leaves showing sharp, pointed edges.

Botanical name: Ilex cornuta

Common names: Chinese Holly, Horned Holly

Family: Aquifoliaceae

Origin: Eastern China

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 7-9

Large shrub 5-10 ft tallPlant used for bonsaiPlant form: Large bush; suitable for bonsai
Plant mature sizeMature height: 5-10 ft
Full sunSemi-shadeSun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Subtropical plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short timeCold tolerance: Tolerates light freezing to about 30°F for short periods (mature plants). Young plants must be protected.
Watering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryWatering: Moderate
White, off-white flowersFlower color: White and off-white
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Ornamental foliageFoliage color: Ornamental foliage
Thorny or spinyThorns: Thorny or spiny
Plant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsWildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Ilex cornuta is valued horticulturally for its attractive and distinctive rectangular foliage and for its large red berries. Unusually shaped rectangular leaves have three large spines at the apex. Flowers are fragrant but generally inconspicuous.

Similar plants: Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly)


Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly) with clusters of round red fruit and thick dark green leaves.
Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly) cluster of round red fruit nestled among deep dark green leaves.
Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly) with green spiky leaves and tan fruit close up
Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly) with distinct spiky foliage and small tan fruit clusters visible.


Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/ilex_cornuta.htm
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