Ilex (maximowicziana var.kanehirae) IMPALA® Japanese holly

This Japanese holly is a unique species formerly known as ilex mutchagara. Its correct Latin name is far too long and a bit complicated to both pronounce and spell, hence its modern trade name IMPALA® holly.

The easiest way to describe IMPALA® holly is to compare it with Japanese box-leaved holly ilex crenata. It differs in larger leaves and faster growth. IMPALA® holly has 2-3 cm long, elliptic, evergreen leaves with serrated margins, light green when they emerge, maturing to dark green in summer on purple red stems. It grows quite fast for a holly and branches well which makes it a perfect hedging plant. Pruning is possible from early spring until early summer, light trimming until late August.

Japanese holly is usually trouble-free, it does best in medium fertile, acid, moist but well-drained soil. Once established it can withstand summer dry spells. Grow it in full sun or part shade, in full shade it will lose its shape and brightness. Hardy to about -25°C (USDA zone 6), possibly a little more.

Last update 15-01-2014