Ilex, Japanese Holly, Boxleaf Holly, Box-leaved Holly 'Convexa'

A very dense, hardy shrub. Glossy green foliage, and a few, small, almost black berries about 1/4". The leaves are convex on top and conc...Read Moreave underneath (cup-like), with a few tiny teeth towards the tip of the leaf. Commonly sheared, it will withstand major pruning. Once it's established it has a great deal of drought tolerance.

Reminiscent of boxwood, but faster growing. Individual branches can grow maybe eight inches in a year. It was over-planted by developers in some areas. Definitely attracts bees, and birds like the cover it provides. The dark evergreen foliage is nice for holiday decorating in winter. From Japan, this variety was introduced to America by the Arnold Arboretum in 1919.