Chilly Willy Japanese Holly

Light Needs

Full Sun

(6+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

5-6 Feet

Mature Spread

6-8 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

For a Japanese holly that is hardier than most, why not try Chilly Willy Japanese Holly? This Ilex Crenata produces a mass of small green leaves forming a pleasing rounded shape up to 5 to 6 feet high and 6 to 8 feet wide. As an evergreen Japanese holly, Chilly Willy will provide interest and structure over the winter months. 

With its naturally attractive shape, Chilly Willy Japanese Holly needs only a little ongoing care to keep it looking good. Furthermore, it can cope with either sun or shade. This Ilex crenata will look great either when planted as a specimen at the back of a border or when planted in a row to form a hedge. 

Chilly Willy Japanese Holly Plant Care

Thankfully, Chilly Willy will tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It will cope with most soil types but prefers moist, but well-drained soil. When it comes to watering, Chilly Willy requires the soil to be kept moist until it has established; avoid overly wet or soggy soil as this can lead to root rot. To encourage fresh new growth, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring.

To shape this Japanese holly, you can trim it in spring or mid-summer. However, don’t prune too late in the summer or fall, as the new growth can get nipped by an early frost. 

Chilly Willy Japanese Holly Plant Spacing

When mature, the Chilly Willy Japanese Holly can reach a spread of 6 to 8 feet wide. As a standalone shrub, you can plant it 7 to 8 feet from other plants, or closer to form a knitted hedge row.

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