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Free Shipping on 5 or More Plants
Offer Expires Jan 1st

Shima-inu-tsuge Holly

Ilex mutchagara

$23.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 7-9

Upright evergreen shrub similar to Japanese Holly (I. crenata) and sometimes considered a variety of it found on Okinawa. The small evergreen leaves have marginal teeth but no spines. A little known shrub with open graceful habit and black fruit on female plants. Probably equally adaptable as the common Japanese Holly but probably less cold hardy. We had apparently mistakenly labeled our plants as "female" and are indebted to a customer for observing the flowers and advising us that they were male.

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 7 to 9
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained
  • Growth Rate:

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Hardiness Zones: 7 - 9

Soil: Well-drained

Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade

Seasonal Behavior: Evergreen

Growth Rate:

Height at Maturity: 8 - 10 Feet

Spread at Maturity: 4 - 6 Feet

Foliage: The leaves are glossy, dark green, and elliptic, providing a dense, evergreen appearance year-round.

Flowers: Produces small, inconspicuous white flowers in the spring, followed by red berries in the fall if both male and female plants are present.

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full sun. Ilex mutchagara thrives in locations with bright, indirect light or dappled sunlight. It can tolerate full sun, particularly in cooler climates, but in hotter regions, some afternoon shade will help protect the plant from leaf scorch.

Soil Requirements: Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Ilex mutchagara grows best in rich, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.0. The plant is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy and clay soils, provided they drain well. Incorporating organic matter such as compost or leaf mold will improve soil structure and fertility.

Watering: Requires moderate watering. Ilex mutchagara prefers consistently moist soil, especially during the growing season. Water the plant regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, but be cautious of overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 7-9. Ilex mutchagara prefers temperate climates and can tolerate a range of temperatures, though it is not highly frost-tolerant. It performs well in moderate to high humidity levels. In areas prone to frost, consider providing winter protection or growing the plant in a container that can be moved indoors during colder months.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and fruiting. An additional feeding in mid-summer can help sustain the plant during its active growing season. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, are also beneficial and can be incorporated into the soil annually.

Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain the plant's shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Ilex mutchagara has a naturally attractive form, so heavy pruning is usually unnecessary. Regular light pruning can help promote bushier growth and a more compact shape.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant but may occasionally be affected by common garden pests such as aphids, scale insects, or spider mites. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases such as leaf spot or powdery mildew. If pests or diseases are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular inspection and maintaining garden hygiene can help keep the plant healthy.

Grown in Aiken, S.C.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.