the former crenate, known as Japanese agrifoil, is an evergreen shrub appreciated for the dark and glossy green foliage. the plant has a compact and rounded bearing, with small leaves and often crenate along the margin. flowers are usually unseen, while black or dark blue berries that form in autumn add a decorative touch. cultivated for ornamental purposes, the former clay is adaptable to different growth conditions and is used in gardens, parks, low hedges and edges. requires moderate maintenance, and is generally resistant to diseases and insects.
the former crenateis an evergreen shrub that has several interesting features.
leaves: the leaves are persistent, coriaceous, oval or elliptic, of dark green colour. Unlike the common holly (the former aquifolium), the Japanese rate has no thorns along the margins of the leaves.
size: can grow as a compact shrub or be shaped in more sculptural forms. size may vary depending on the variety, but typically, it can reach a height between 1 and 3 meters.
flower and fruit: the flowers are small and little flashy, often white or cream. flowering takes place in spring or summer. the fruit is a small black or dark purple spherical berry that matures in autumn.
growth: grows slowly and can be easily shaped, making it ideal for edges, hedges or mice.
adaptability: is suitable for various types of soils, provided they are well drained. tolerant also towards pruning.
cold resistance: is generally cold-resistant, making it suitable for different climatic regions.
ornamental use: is widely cultivated for its decorative appearance in Japanese gardens and formal landscapes. can be used both as a single plant and in groups to form hedges.
common problems: is generally resistant to diseases and insects, but can be susceptible to problems such as rust of the leaves.
This evergreen shrub has its roots in japan, cream and chorea, and was subsequently introduced in many other parts of the world for its decorative foliage and its landscape adaptability. its Asian origin makes it a plant suitable for temperate climates and contributes to its popularity as an ornamental element in the gardens.