Carissa Holly is one of, if not the best evergreen shrubs for use as a foundation plant. The stiff, oval, pointed leaves are dark green and shiny. Forms a dense rounded mound to 4' tall and 5' wide. Exceptionally low maintenance and never needs pruning when placed and spaced properly. Exceptionally cold hardy to below 0 degrees F. No disease or insect problems. Useful as a staggered or straight hedge or planted in small to large groupings. Thrives in full sun to mostly shade.

Height: 3' to 4' Landscape Usages: Foundation, Landscape Beds, Shrub Border, Outdoor Living Areas, Containers / Planters, Entryway, Small Groups, Accent, Hedges, Mass Planting Foliage Color: Green Resistant To: Deer Resistant, Disease, Drought, Insect, Heat Type: Shrub, Evergreen Theme Gardens: Japanese

Spread: 4' to 5' Attracts: Visual Attention Characteristics: Foliage Growth Rate: Moderate Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Mostly Sun, Afternoon Sun, Morning Sun, Partial Shade Soil Needs: Ammended Clay, Average, Well-Drained Water Needs: Low USDA Zones: 9, 6, 7, 8

Carissa Holly Feeding Instructions

Fertilize this evergreen shrub in Spring (after new growth has begun to emerge), and again, if needed, in late Summer to early Fall with a well-balanced tree and shrub fertilizer or an organic plant food. When in dought as to how much fertilizer to apply, follow instructions on the product label.

Carissa Holly Pruning Instructions

This is a low-maintenance plant that requires little or no pruning! An occasional snip here or there of a stray or broken branch, or shearing faded flowers to encourage more blooming is okay.

Carissa Holly Pest Instructions

This plant typically encounters very few pest or disease problems. If a pest or disease problem is identified, treat with an insecticide product, preferably one containing "Neem oil". Neem oil is a safe, triple-action product that can be used to control insects, mites and diseases. If your plant appears seriously stressed or diseased, consult with your local nurseryman, arborist, professional landscaper or local extension agent.