Carissa Holly

Carissa Holly is a compact evergreen shrub with dense, glossy dark green foliage and a neat rounded habit. Each leathery leaf typically carries a single small spine at the tip, giving it a softer look than many Chinese hollies. It is a dependable choice for low hedges, foundations, borders, and mass plantings in Southern gardens. Plant it in full sun to part shade with well-drained soil, then water regularly until the root system is established.

Plant details

• Botanical name: Ilex cornuta 'Carissa'
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• USDA zones: 7–9
• Mature height: 3–4 ft
• Mature width: 3–6 ft
• Foliage: Evergreen; glossy dark green leaves with one small terminal spine
• Flower or feature: Small white spring flowers; fruit is usually sparse or inconsistent
• Bloom season: Spring
• Water: Average; drought and heat tolerant once established; well-drained soil
• Growth habit: Compact, dense, broad and rounded
• Landscape uses: Foundation planting, low hedge, border, mass planting, evergreen structure
• Deer tolerance: Generally deer resistant; not deer-proof

South Carolina garden note: A durable Zone 8b foundation shrub that handles South Carolina heat once established. Avoid wet soil around the roots.

Plant size and performance vary with climate, soil, pruning and care. Availability changes with nursery inventory.