Which plant is known as Japanese Holly?

The plant commonly referred to as Japanese Holly is Ilex crenata. This species is characterized by its small, glossy leaves and dense growth habit, making it a popular choice for hedges and ornamental landscaping. Ilex crenata is often utilized for its ability to tolerate various soil types and its resilience in urban environments. Additionally, this plant is evergreen, ensuring that it provides year-round foliage, which is a desirable trait in landscape design.

The other Ilex species listed have distinct characteristics that differentiate them from Japanese Holly. For instance, Ilex cornuta, commonly known as Chinese Holly, features spiny leaves and a different growth habit. Ilex verticillata, or Winterberry, is a deciduous holly that showcases bright red berries in winter but loses its leaves in the fall. Ilex vomitoria, often called Yaupon Holly, is also evergreen and known for its fine texture and ability to grow in varied conditions, but it is not the same as Japanese Holly. Understanding these distinctions highlights why Ilex crenata is accurately identified as Japanese Holly.