Introduction

Japanese Holly offers compact foliage and year-round greenery in a naturally well-proportioned bonsai. Its shaped outline offers a form to maintain and refine over time. It is supplied in an approximately 20cm pot.

About this bonsai

Its small leaves and fine branching suit gradual canopy development. Gentle, regular trimming helps maintain the outline without relying on dramatic pruning sessions.

Tree details

• Common name: Japanese Holly
• Botanical name: Ilex crenata
• Style: Shaped
• Pot: Approximately 20cm external width; glazed ceramic bonsai pot
• Position: Outdoors
• Foliage: Evergreen
• Experience: Beginner to intermediate
• Approximate overall height: 35–40cm

Position & light

Keep outdoors in sun or partial shade, with good airflow and shelter from harsh drying winds. Provide some protection from intense heat where a small pot dries very quickly.

Watering

Check the soil regularly, particularly in warm or windy weather. Water thoroughly as the surface begins to dry, then allow excess to drain freely. Avoid drying the whole root ball or prolonged waterlogging.

Feeding & pruning

Feed during the growing season using suitable bonsai fertiliser. Trim new shoots as needed and assess repotting in spring, taking account of root growth and drainage.

Winter care

Keep outdoors with protection for the pot and roots during prolonged severe frost. A sheltered, unheated setting is preferable to a centrally heated room.

What you'll receive

One Japanese Holly bonsai in the pot described above. A drip tray is not included unless specifically included in a purchased option. Photographs are representative; trunks, branches, foliage and overall shape vary naturally between trees.