Product page > Variant picker block.Ilex cornuta ‘Carissa’, commonly known as Carissa Holly, is a compact, evergreen shrub admired for its dense, rounded shape and glossy green foliage. Its thick, leathery leaves have a single terminal spine, less sharp than other hollies, making it an excellent choice for areas near walkways, patios, or entryways. The tidy growth habit and year-round color make Carissa Holly a versatile and low-maintenance option for foundation plantings, borders, or formal hedges. In spring, small fragrant white flowers appear, followed by bright red berries on female plants when pollinated, adding seasonal color and wildlife interest.
Carissa Holly performs best in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil, though it tolerates a range of soil conditions once established. It is drought-tolerant, heat-tolerant, and performs well in urban environments, making it suitable for both residential and commercial landscapes. Regular watering during the first growing season helps establish a strong root system, but once mature, it requires little care beyond occasional pruning to maintain its neat, rounded form. This holly is hardy in USDA Zones 7-9 and can handle both sun and shade exposure, though too much shade may reduce berry production.
This shrub grows slowly, typically reaching 3 to 4 feet tall and spreading 4 to 6 feet wide. Its naturally rounded form requires minimal shaping, making it a reliable choice for structured plantings, borders, or low hedges. Its glossy green foliage holds color throughout winter, providing evergreen appeal even in colder months.
Like other hollies, Carissa Holly contains saponins that can be toxic if ingested by humans or pets, potentially causing mild stomach irritation. However, it is rarely disturbed by deer, and its thick foliage makes it both durable and pest-resistant.
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Plant size and shape may differ from what is pictured.
For mail orders: Plants may go through shock during shipping. Upon arrival, take the plant out and water it thoroughly. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, please notify us via email at sales@amgardens.com and include a photo(s) within 24 hours of plant arrival.
For in store purchases: If you are not satisfied with your purchase, please call us at 423-870-5000 or return the plant in its original pot/condition within 3 days. Trees and shrubs have a 1 year warranty (exceptions may apply), but we highly encourage you to give us a call or email if you notice issues with your plant. We'd love to help you figure out what's wrong and save your plant!
Orders are shipped on Wednesdays and Thursdays; if your order is placed on a Wednesday, it may not ship until the following Wednesday. During peak season there may be delays in shipping. If it is too hot or cold, we suggest ordering during milder months to ensure plants arrive in best condition.