Japanese Holly, also known as Ilex crenata ‘Hetzii’, is an evergreen shrub, which means it retains its green foliage throughout the year. Unlike deciduous plants that shed their leaves in the fall, Japanese Holly maintains its leaves, providing a vibrant and lush appearance even during the winter months. This is particularly advantageous in landscaping and gardening, as it ensures a year-round display of greenery in your outdoor space.
The foliage of Japanese Holly consists of ovate to elliptic leaves, which have a glossy dark green color. These leaves are typically less than an inch in length and width, giving them a compact and neat appearance. The shiny, dark green foliage adds an attractive touch to any garden or landscape, providing a visually appealing backdrop for other plants and flowers.
I personally find the evergreen nature of Japanese Holly to be highly beneficial. It brings a sense of permanence and structure to the garden, especially during the colder seasons when many other plants have lost their leaves. The consistent green color helps maintain a sense of vitality and liveliness, creating a visually pleasing contrast against the starkness of winter.
In addition to its year-round green foliage, Japanese Holly is also broadleaved rather than needled, making it a unique option among evergreen plants. This distinction sets it apart from conifers and other needled evergreens commonly found in gardens. The broadleaved nature of Japanese Holly contributes to its overall aesthetic appeal and can provide a different texture and visual interest when combined with other plants in your garden.
To summarize, Japanese Holly is indeed an evergreen shrub that stays green all year. Its ovate to elliptic, glossy dark green leaves add a touch of elegance and vibrancy to any landscape. Whether used as a standalone specimen or incorporated into mixed plantings, Japanese Holly’s year-round green foliage brings a sense of permanence and beauty to your garden throughout all seasons.
