Ilex crenata Helleri

Heller's Japanese Holly

Ilex crenata ‘Helleri’ is a dense dwarf evergreen shrub valued for its very small glossy dark green leaves and naturally tight rounded habit. This Japanese holly forms a compact mound with fine texture, making it one of the most widely used low evergreen shrubs for formal and foundation plantings. Its dense branching gives year-round structure with minimal maintenance.

Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 3–4 ft · Height: 2–4 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–8b

Form: Dense, rounded, compact

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, borders, and formal gardens where a neat evergreen mound is desired. It responds very well to shearing but often maintains shape naturally.

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 areas for best foliage quality.

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

2-4'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–9

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

Container, Foundation Plant, Hedge

Shape

Compact, Dense, Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No