Description
Ilex cornuta ‘Carissa’, commonly known as Chinese Holly, is a vigorous evergreen shrub prized for its dense, glossy dark green foliage and distinctive spiny, holly-shaped leaves that provide year-round interest and excellent privacy screening. Originating from East Asia, this cultivar is notable for its compact growth habit, typically reaching 4 to 6 feet in height, making it suitable for hedges or foundation planting. It produces small white flowers in spring that attract pollinators, followed by bright red berries that persist into winter, offering valuable food for wildlife and adding seasonal color. ‘Carissa’ is highly adaptable to a range of soil types and exhibits strong resistance to deer browsing, heat, and drought, making it a durable choice for diverse landscape conditions. This cultivar’s combination of ornamental appeal, wildlife benefits, and robust nature has contributed to its popularity among gardeners and landscapers alike.