Ilex crenata Bennetts Compacta

Japanese Holly Bennetts Compacta

Ilex crenata ‘Bennett’s Compacta’ is a dense evergreen shrub valued for its very small glossy dark green leaves and naturally compact rounded habit. This Japanese holly forms a fine-textured mound with dense branching, making it a strong boxwood substitute where a durable evergreen is needed. Small black berries may appear on female plants when pollinated.

Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 3–4 ft · Height: 3–4 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–8b

Form: Compact, rounded

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil

Water: Medium; prefers even moisture during establishment

Wildlife: Small berries may attract birds

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for low hedges, foundation plantings, borders, and formal gardens where dense fine texture and a naturally tidy form are desired. It tolerates shearing well for structured use.

Care:
Plant in well-drained acidic soil and avoid poorly drained sites. Prune lightly in late spring or early summer if shaping is needed. Protect from severe winter wind in exposed sites for best foliage quality.

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

3-4'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Mass Planting

Shape

Compact Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No