Ilex crenata Green Luster

Green Lustre Holly

Ilex crenata ‘Green Luster’ is a dense evergreen shrub valued for its glossy dark green foliage and broad low-spreading habit. This Japanese holly forms a compact mound wider than tall, with lustrous leaves that remain attractive year-round. Its fine texture and horizontal branching make it especially useful where low evergreen mass is needed.

Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 6–8 ft · Height: 3–4 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–8b

Form: Low, broad, spreading

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil

Water: Medium; prefers even moisture during establishment

Wildlife: Small black berries may attract birds

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for low hedges, foundation plantings, mass plantings, and slopes where broad evergreen coverage and fine texture are desired. Its naturally spreading habit requires little pruning.

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

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

3-4'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Foundation Plant, Mass Planting

Shape

Compact Rounded, Spreading

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No