Compacta Holly
Ilex crenata ‘Compacta’Local DFW Delivery Only
Product Details
Compacta Holly
Ilex crenata ‘Compacta’Compacta Holly brings color and structure to any landscape. Its dense, glossy green leaves and naturally rounded form create a tidy, elegant look with little effort. Growing up to 5 feet in both height and width at maturity, this shrub is perfect for medium-height hedges, defining borders, or adding depth to foundation plantings. Its evergreen foliage keeps the landscape looking lush and full even in winter months. Whether used in formal designs or casual plantings, Compacta Holly offers versatility and dependable beauty.
- An evergreen shrub
- Naturally rounded, compact growth habit
- Moderate growth rate
- Deep green, glossy leaves
- Excellent for borders, hedges and foundation plantings
Hardy in zones 6-9, Compacta Holly fits right into your North Texas landscape. It performs best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. With just a bit of care, it stays attractive year-round, bringing structure and rich color to any outdoor space.
With steady early care, Compacta Holly becomes an easy, reliable shrub that holds its form beautifully with minimal intervention:
- Watering: Water deeply and consistently during the first 1-2 years to establish a healthy root system that supports dense foliage. Once mature, Compacta Holly is moderately drought-tolerant and usually requires supplemental watering only during extended dry periods.
- Pruning: Pruning needs are minimal thanks to its naturally compact structure. If shaping is desired, prune lightly in late winter to remove stray or damaged branches, maintaining its smooth, rounded outline without harsh shearing.
- Fertilizing: This holly performs well in moderately fertile soils and often requires little fertility once established. If foliage becomes pale or growth slows, a light application of slow-release, balanced fertilizer in spring restores vigor without encouraging uneven or overly rapid growth.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch several inches away from the trunk to prevent bark moisture issues, and refresh the mulch ring annually for continued soil health.
- Winter Care: Compacta Holly is reliably cold-hardy, keeping its evergreen color through most winters. In unusually harsh conditions, young shrubs may show slight leaf bronzing, but they recover quickly with spring warmth.
Compacta Holly is generally easygoing, though a few manageable issues may appear in humid, wet, or nutrient-impaired conditions:
- Leaf Spot: Small brown or purple lesions appear on leaves during extended humidity. Remove affected foliage and increase airflow to minimize fungal pressure.
- Scale Insects: Shell-like bumps form on stems or leaves, leading to yellowing and thinning. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to keep populations in check.
- Spider Mites: Fine stippling, dusty foliage, and subtle webbing show up in hot, dry weather. Rinse foliage or apply horticultural oil to restore color and reduce stress.
- Root Rot: Sudden wilting or yellowing occurs when the soil remains waterlogged. Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency to protect roots.
- Nutrient Chlorosis: Yellowing leaves with green veins appear in very alkaline soils. Apply chelated iron or soil amendments to correct the imbalance.
Most Compacta Hollies thrive for 25-40 years with proper care. Their dependable lifespan makes them excellent long-term choices for borders and small garden structures.
It grows at a slow to moderate rate of 4-8 inches per year and typically forms its mature, rounded shape in 5-7 years. This allows it to maintain a naturally tidy look with minimal pruning.
Its small, leathery leaves are generally not favored by deer. Young shrubs may still appreciate early protection where deer pressure is intense.
Yes - its compact size and slow growth rate make it excellent for large containers on patios, balconies, and porches. Over time, planting in the ground gives the best long-term results.
It cannot be divided, as it grows from a unified woody structure. Propagation is typically done through cuttings or nursery production.
It’s excellent - its naturally tight structure and fine foliage create clean, elegant lines along walkways and garden edges. With minimal shaping, it forms a refined, low hedge.
Companions like Coral Bells, Dwarf Fountain Grass, Azaleas, and flowering perennials provide balanced texture and color. Its evergreen form anchors these combinations beautifully year-round.
Yes - it tolerates pollution, compacted soils, and the heat of paved areas remarkably well. Its durability and neat form make it perfect for entryways, courtyards, and high-traffic spaces.
Young shrubs transplant easily when moved during cooler months. Once established, they settle into new locations quickly with proper watering and care.
Its refined texture, small leaves, and tidy habit give it a uniquely polished look without the prickliness of many hollies. Compacta Holly delivers elegance, structure, and evergreen beauty with almost effortless care.
Special Features
You might also like
Compare Similar Plants
Compacta Holly This plant | ||
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ilex crenata ‘Compacta’ | Ilex cornuta ‘Carissa’ |
| Size at Maturity | 5' H x 5' W | 3' H x 4' W |
| Leaf Retention | Evergreen | Evergreen |
| Sizes Available | 3, 7, 10, 15 gal | 3 Gal |
Our 1-Year Planting Guarantee
We take pride in our plants and installation services. If any plants or trees installed by Treeland fail to thrive within the first year, we'll provide a replacement credit in accordance with our guarantee program.
Learn More About Our Guarantee