
Outdoor Ilex Crenata Bonsai (Japanese Holly) Evergreen Bonsai
Product Code: Ilex
£75.99
The 9-year-old Ilex crenata flowering bonsai is presented in a striking blue ceramic pot and features dense evergreen foliage with naturally small leaves. Because the Japanese Holly is hardy and responds well to pruning, it is considered a dependable outdoor bonsai species. Furthermore, as each tree is individually grown, natural variation in trunk and canopy ensures every Ilex crenata bonsai has its own unique character and charm.
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Ilex Crenata Bonsai – 9-Year-Old Japanese Holly in Blue Ceramic Pot
The Ilex crenata bonsai, commonly known as Japanese Holly, is widely appreciated as an elegant evergreen bonsai species. At approximately 9 years of age, these trees are already well established and display pleasing structure and balance. Furthermore, each bonsai is presented in a gorgeous blue ceramic pot, allowing the rich green foliage to be beautifully highlighted.
A Traditional Outdoor Bonsai Species
The Ilex crenata originates from Japan, Korea, and parts of China, where it has long been valued for its refined appearance. It is characterised by small, glossy evergreen leaves that naturally form a dense and compact canopy. As a result, this species is frequently styled in soft rounded forms or elegant cloud-like shapes. They are often associated with traditional Japanese garden design.
In addition, during late spring, delicate white flowers may be produced, and occasionally these are followed by small black berries, providing subtle seasonal interest.
Hardy and Easy to Maintain
The Ilex is considered a hardy outdoor bonsai and is generally well suited to garden or patio display. A bright outdoor position is preferred, although partial shade is also tolerated. In colder conditions, this species is typically resilient; however, protection during severe frost is usually recommended.
Furthermore, because of its naturally dense growth, this bonsai is known to respond well to regular pruning and shaping, allowing its neat proportions to be easily maintained.
Natural Variation
These trees form part of our standard bonsai range, and therefore natural variation should be expected. Each Ilex crenata bonsai is individually grown and shaped, meaning differences in trunk movement, branching, and canopy form will naturally occur. Consequently, every tree possesses its own character.
Why Choose an Ilex Crenata Bonsai
The Japanese Holly bonsai has long been valued for its small leaf size, dense branching, and reliable evergreen foliage. Because of these qualities, it is often chosen by both beginners and experienced bonsai enthusiasts. Additionally, its compact growth habit allows a classic miniature tree form to be maintained with ease.
Why Buy from Bonsai Direct
At Bonsai Direct, every bonsai is carefully grown and selected by experienced growers. They understand the balance, health, and character that make a tree truly special. Years of knowledge and attention to detail are applied so that each bonsai is presented in excellent condition and ready to be enjoyed. Furthermore, clear printed care guidance is included with every tree, allowing beginners and enthusiasts alike to feel confident while nurturing their bonsai.
| Species | Ilex crenata, commonly known as Japanese Holly, is a refined evergreen bonsai valued for its compact growth and neat, naturally small foliage. Its dense, glossy dark green leaves create a beautifully textured canopy that lends itself well to sculptural pruning styles. This hardy outdoor species grows slowly and responds well to shaping, making it ideal for maintaining classic bonsai structure. In late spring it produces delicate white flowers, which may later develop into small black berries, adding seasonal interest. Japanese Holly thrives best in sun to partial shade and enjoys well-drained soil. |
| Evergreen | Yes |
| Flowering/Fruiting | Flowering - Can fruit when more mature |
| Age (years) | 9 |
| Height (cm) | 38 |
| Pot Size (cm) | 15 x 11 |
| Pot Colour | Blue |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Outdoor |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Maintenance | Positioning: Place your Ilex crenata bonsai outdoors in a bright position with plenty of natural light. Full sun to partial shade is ideal, and good air circulation will help keep the foliage healthy throughout the year. Watering: Water thoroughly when the top of the soil begins to dry. Allow the surface to dry slightly between waterings, but do not allow the rootball to dry out completely. Feeding: Apply bonsai fertiliser weekly during the growing season (typically March–October), following the instructions on the bottle. Pruning: Trim new growth regularly to maintain the tree’s shape and encourage dense branching. Light pruning throughout the growing season will help maintain a neat canopy. Repotting: Repot every two to three years in early spring using a well-draining bonsai soil mix. Note: Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly) is a hardy outdoor bonsai that should be kept outside year-round. It tolerates colder temperatures well but may benefit from some shelter during periods of severe frost or strong winter winds. |
| Pet Friendly | No |
Ilex crenata, commonly known as Japanese Holly, is a refined evergreen bonsai valued for its compact growth and neat, naturally small foliage. Its dense, glossy dark green leaves create a beautifully textured canopy that lends itself well to sculptural pruning styles. This hardy outdoor species grows slowly and responds well to shaping, making it ideal for maintaining classic bonsai structure. In late spring it produces delicate white flowers, which may later develop into small black berries, adding seasonal interest. Japanese Holly thrives best in sun to partial shade and enjoys well-drained soil.
Choose your date
| Service | When will it arrive? | Charge |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Delivery (England, Wales & Southern Scotland) | Next working day (order before 3:25pm) or your chosen date | FREE |
| Premium AM (Weekdays before 1pm) | Next working day (order before 3:25pm) or your chosen date | £8.99 |
| Weekend Delivery | Chosen Saturday or Sunday | £8.99 |
| Highlands & Islands AB37–38, AB54–56, FK17–21, GY, HS, IV1–63, JE, KA27–28, KW1–17, PA20–49, PA60–78, PH19–26, PH30–40, PH42–44, PH49–50, TR21–25, ZE | Two working days (order before 3:25pm) or your chosen date | £7.99 |
| Northern Ireland | Two working days (order before 3:25pm) or your chosen date | £7.99 |
📘 Printed care guide included with all orders.
🚚 All bonsai tree orders can be tracked and our couriers will notify you of your delivery slot.
Beginner-friendly
| Care | What to do | How often |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Read your printed Care Instruction Guide included with every bonsai tree before you begin. | Upon arrival |
| On arrival | In hot weather, stand pot in water for 5 minutes, then drain. | Once on day 1 |
| Position | Indoor Bonsai – Bright daylight, avoid harsh midday sun & cold draughts. Outdoor Bonsai – bright to semi-shaded, sheltered position. | All year |
| Water | Check soil daily; keep damp to the touch (not soggy). In hot spells, soak the pot briefly. | Daily check |
| Mist | Lightly mist foliage to boost humidity and condition leaves. | Once or twice a week |
| Feed | Use bonsai fertiliser, diluted as directed. Follow the directions on the bottle. | Species dependant |
| Prune | Trim longer shoots to maintain shape and encourage new growth. | As needed |
| Health | If needed, use an invigorator/insecticide and follow the label instructions. | If issues arise |
🎥 Extra help & videos are available on our website.
✅ Every bonsai is checked, watered & securely packaged before dispatch.
All prices are inclusive of VAT at standard rate.

