Overview
Ardisia crenata is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Ardisia, part of the Primulaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Ardisia crenata grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Ardisia crenata is a species of flowering plant in the primrose family, Primulaceae, that is native to East Asia. It is known by a variety of names such as Christmas berry, coral ardisia, coral bush, coralberry, coralberry tree, hen's-eyes, and spiceberry. A. crenata is a compact shrub that reaches 1 metre (3.3 ft), often with a single stem. Leaves are dark green, thick, glossy, and have tightly waved edges. Grow it in partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it is tender and needs frost-free protection over winter (RHS H2). It works well for patio and container plants. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and east-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ardisia crenata
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Ardisia
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Ardisia crenata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants, Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Ardisia crenata
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings in summer, seed in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Ardisia crenata?
Ardisia crenata prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Ardisia crenata need?
Ardisia crenata grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Ardisia crenata hardy in the UK?
Ardisia crenata has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Ardisia crenata?
Semi-ripe cuttings in summer, seed in spring.
