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Ilex cornuta Willowleaf
Common Name: Willowleaf Holly
Ilex cornuta ‘Willowleaf’ is an evergreen shrub valued for its unusual narrow, elongated leaves that give it a softer texture than typical Chinese hollies. The glossy dark green foliage often has only slight spines, and female plants produce bright red berries when pollinated. Its finer leaf shape creates a distinct appearance while still maintaining strong evergreen structure.
Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 6–8 ft · Height: 10–15 ft
USDA Zones: 7a–9b
Form: Upright, dense, pyramidal
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to a range of soils
Water: Medium; drought tolerant once established
Wildlife: Berries attract birds
Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for screening, hedges, specimen planting, and mixed evergreen borders where a finer-textured holly is desired. The narrow foliage provides contrast against broader-leaved evergreens.
Care:
Plant in well-drained soil and avoid poorly drained sites. Prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is needed. A male holly nearby improves berry production on female plants.
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Shrub |
| Width: | 6-8' |
| Height: | 10-15' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit: | Not verified |
| Zone: | 7–9 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | Not verified |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Shape: | Pyramidal, Upright, Dense |
| Soil Type | Acidic, Moist well-drained, Highly Adaptable |
| Flower Color: | White |
| Leaf Color: | Dark Green |
| Fall Color: | Dark Green |