Ilex ‘Carissa’

Ilex ‘Carissa’
Southern Grace in a Compact Package

Here at Wright’s Market—tucked sweetly inside our 1938 cottage and steeped in the values of family, community, love, and kindness—we believe every garden should tell a story. And Ilex ‘Carissa’, with its tidy form and enduring beauty, is the kind of plant that quietly carries the strength and warmth of southern living in every glossy leaf.

A Glimpse into History:
The Ilex family—more commonly known as hollies—has deep roots, dating back centuries and cherished across continents for its evergreen strength and symbolism. Carissa holly is a cultivar of Ilex cornuta, or Chinese holly, which was introduced to the U.S. in the early 1900s and quickly found a welcome home in southern gardens. Named after its compact form and rounded habit, Carissa was bred for beauty and practicality, offering classic holly foliage without the fuss.

Unlike the prickly hollies of the past, Carissa brings a gentler, more refined look. It’s a favorite in Southern landscapes thanks to its polished leaves, rich color, and its ability to provide year-round structure and grace.

Where It Grows Best:
Carissa holly thrives in full sun to partial shade and is perfectly suited to our southern soils. It prefers well-drained soil but is forgiving once established, withstanding drought, heat, and humidity like a true southern native. Whether you’re tucking it into a foundation planting, lining a walkway, or placing it in a container on the front porch, Carissa offers a neat, evergreen presence all year long.

Its low, mounding habit makes it an excellent choice for borders, hedges, or as a grounding anchor in layered garden beds. Think of it as the reliable friend in your garden—the one that always shows up and looks good, no matter the season.

What It Means:
Traditionally, hollies symbolize protection and endurance. With its strong structure and evergreen presence, Ilex ‘Carissa’ quietly represents stability, comfort, and the kind of steadfast love we associate with home and family. Its graceful shape and gentle foliage reflect the beauty of tradition and the strength that comes from growing where your roots run deep.

Blooming Season:
Though it’s primarily celebrated for its rich, green foliage, Carissa holly does produce small, white flowers in spring. These dainty blooms are subtle but sweet—another reminder that beauty doesn’t always need to shout. In some cases, it may produce a few small red berries in fall, though fruiting is rare without a male pollinator nearby.

Care Instructions:
This plant is a true southern workhorse with a polished appearance and very little maintenance required. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant and resistant to pests and diseases. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to shape if needed, but its naturally compact growth means you won’t need to fuss over it. A light mulch around the base helps keep roots cool and moisture in during our warmer months.

Complimentary Plant Material:
Pair Ilex ‘Carissa’ with classic southern staples like Azaleas, Camellias, or Gardenias for a layered, evergreen palette that blooms with grace. It also contrasts beautifully with the soft textures of Mondo Grass, Liriope, or Hostas in shaded areas. For sun-loving companions, try it with Knock Out Roses, Salvia, or Coreopsis—plants that echo its charm while bringing seasonal color into the mix.