Soft Touch Japanese Holly
Overview: A holly grown for its unusually soft, fine-textured dark green foliage.
Mature size: Varies widely by cultivar, from 2 ft. dwarf forms up to 8–10 ft..
Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Flowering season: Inconspicuous small flowers in spring; fruit (on female plants) is black, not the showy red typical of other hollies
Hardiness: USDA Zones 6–8
Water needs: Average; consistent moisture in acidic, well-drained soil
Special features: Notably softer to the touch than most hollies, without the typical prickly feel. Small, boxwood-like leaves without spines; dense, compact, easily sheared habit; protect from harsh winter wind; may struggle in extreme heat and humidity
Wildlife value: Bees and other pollinators; berries (on hollies) attract birds
Botanical name: Ilex crenata 'Soft Touch'
Category: Shrubs & Trees