Chilly Willy Japanese Holly - Holiday

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

5 - 6 Feet

Mature Spread

6 - 8 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

• Partial Shade to Full Sun (At Least 3 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)
• Mature Height 5 - 6 Feet
• Mature Spread 6 - 8 Feet
• Growing Zones 5 - 8

Chilly Willy Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata 'Chilly Willy') delivers attractive evergreen foliage with unmatched cold-hardiness. Selected specifically for its ability to withstand harsh winters, this shrub maintains a neat, rounded shape, growing to an ideal size of 5 to 6 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide. Its glossy, deep green leaves remain lush throughout winter, bringing life to your garden even during the dormant season. Unlike other hollies, Chilly Willy thrives in both sun and shade, offering versatile landscaping options and requiring minimal upkeep.

Chilly Willy Japanese Holly makes a charming indoor holiday display. A perfect eco-conscious gift idea, this shrub provides lasting value by transitioning from indoor festive displays to a stunning garden addition come spring. Forget disposable artificial decorations—this holly invites nature indoors during winter's darkest days, reconnecting your home with the outdoors. Once planted outside, it provides a habitat for birds and adds enduring structure to your landscape.

Holiday Chilly Willy Japanese Holly Care

Keep Chilly Willy healthy indoors by placing it in bright, indirect sunlight, ideally in a cool room between 60-70°F. Maintain moderate humidity through occasional misting or by placing a water tray nearby, ensuring consistent moisture in the soil without overwatering. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot.

Once the threat of frost has passed, gradually introduce Chilly Willy Japanese Holly outdoors over one to two weeks by extending its outdoor exposure daily. Choose a planting location that offers well-drained, slightly acidic soil in sun or partial shade. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, plant at soil level, backfill, and water thoroughly, finishing with mulch to conserve moisture and protect the roots.