Ilex crenata or Japanese holly, is widely used as an evergreen shrub for foundation plantings, massing and hedges. The habit is extremely variable, ranging from a dense, many-branched shrub to a small, upright tree. The dark green leaves, often lustrous, are 1/4 to 1 1/4" in length and have small, blackish glands on the undersides. Leaves may be either flat or cupped (convex).

It is easy to transplant and grow. Provide a well-drained soil and full sun or half day shade.

Cultivars and varieties:

There are many to choose amongst. 'Beehive' is a dense, compact mounded form. 'Compacta', a globose form, has lustrous, dark, green leaves; young stems are purple. 'Convexa' is an old standby, with 1/20 in, oblong, lustrous, dark green leaves.  These plants can become quite large if not pruned. 

For more information, Missouri Botanical Garden is a wonderful rescource.

Courtesy of the NYBG Plant Information Service