Carissa Holly

IS CARISSA HOLLY GOOD FOR KEEPING PEOPLE OUT (E.G. THORNY LIKE OTHER HOLLY'S). I ALSO WANT TO BUNCH IT TOGETHER (EVERY 2 FT) TO MAKE IT AS THICK AS POSSIBLE [N.B. I AM INTERESTEDIN THE 7 GAL SIZE)

Yes, Carissa Holly has thorny leaves that can act as a natural barrier, making it effective for deterring people or animals.

Is this grow in zone 6b I’m in warresvielle nc

Carissa Holly is best suited for zones 7–9. In zone 6b, it may struggle with cold temperatures, especially during harsh winters. Consider using winter protection or choosing a more cold-hardy variety.

Does holly bush need very much sun

Carissa Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Carissa') prefers full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate some shade, it performs best and maintains its dense, compact growth when it receives ample sunlight.

Sunlight Requirements:

1. Full Sun: Ideally, Carissa Holly should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This helps the plant develop its best form and the most vibrant leaf color.

2. Partial Shade: The plant can still grow well with 3-6 hours of sunlight per day, especially in hot climates where some afternoon shade can protect it from intense heat. However, too much shade may cause the plant to become leggy, with fewer leaves and a more open growth habit.

3. Dense Shade: Carissa Holly does not thrive in dense shade. In very low light conditions, the plant may struggle, leading to poor growth and reduced vigor.

In summary, while Carissa Holly is somewhat adaptable, it will perform best with plenty of sunlight. If possible, choose a location that offers full sun or at least partial shade for optimal growth and appearance.

How far should we space a one gallon pot.

When planting one-gallon pots of Carissa Holly, they should be spaced about 2 to 3 feet apart. This spacing allows the plants to grow and fill in without overcrowding. Carissa Holly typically reaches a mature width of 3 to 4 feet, so proper spacing ensures healthy growth and allows for air circulation, reducing the risk of disease. For a dense hedge, you can plant them closer to 2 feet apart, but for more natural, individual growth, 3 feet apart is recommended.

How tall is the 7 gallon Carissa Holly when newly planted?

Generally speaking, the 7 gallon carissa hollies will be about 13 inches in width and about 10 inches in height.

Carissa hollies (Ilex cornuta 'Carissa') are considered dwarf hollies. They typically grow to about 3-4 feet tall and wide, making them a compact choice for landscapes.

Does it need much maintenance and how often do you have to water How fast growing

Carissa Holly is a low-maintenance shrub, making it a great choice for easy landscaping. It doesn't require much pruning and is known for its compact, tidy shape. In terms of watering, Carissa Holly prefers well-drained soil and needs watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. Once established, it's drought-tolerant and doesn't need frequent watering. Carissa Holly is a slow-growing plant, so it won’t need constant upkeep, but its manageable growth makes it ideal for hedges or borders. For healthy growth, provide full to partial sun. This hardy shrub is both low-maintenance and versatile.

Does it grow well in shade

Yes, Carissa holly (Ilex cornuta 'Carissa') can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full sun for the best growth and berry production. In shadier conditions, it may grow more slowly and develop a more open form, but it can still thrive. For optimal health and dense foliage, aim for at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.

Is this plant disease resistant. Our home gets full sun in summer, shade in the pm. After 25 years we are tired of replacing diseased boxwoods. Zone 8.

Does this do well in south west Florida Jane Brooks

Yes, Carissa Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Carissa') can do well in Southwest Florida. It thrives in USDA Zones 7-9, and Southwest Florida falls within these zones. This hardy, drought-tolerant shrub prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making it suitable for the warm, humid climate of Southwest Florida. Its compact size and low-maintenance nature also make it an excellent choice for landscaping in the region. Just ensure it's planted in an area that avoids waterlogging, as it prefers slightly dry conditions.

Is it good for Denver?

A Carissa Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Carissa') is not ideal for Denver’s climate. Carissa Holly thrives in USDA Zones 7 to 9, while Denver is in Zone 5. The colder winters in Denver, with freezing temperatures, are likely too harsh for this plant to survive without protection. If you're looking for evergreens in Denver, it's better to choose cold-hardy varieties suited for Zone 5.

Does Carissa Holly grow in dark area in Houston without getting disease and does it tolerate drought

Carissa Holly is fairly tolerant of low-light areas but generally performs better with at least partial sun. In a dark area, it may grow more slowly and can become leggy, which can reduce its resistance to diseases over time. As for drought tolerance, Carissa Holly is relatively resilient once established and can handle dry conditions, but regular watering during hot, extended dry spells is recommended, especially in Houston’s climate. Regular monitoring will help maintain its health in low-light and drier conditions.

How tall is this plant can grow naturally? Can this plant in Massachusetts? Do they died during the winter? When will be a good time to plant? Thank you!

Carissa Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Carissa') typically reaches a mature height of about 3-4 feet tall and can spread up to 4-6 feet wide, making it an excellent compact shrub for hedges and borders.

Carissa Holly is best suited for USDA Zones 7-9 and may struggle in Massachusetts' colder climate, as it is not very cold-hardy and could suffer damage or die in freezing temperatures typical of Zone 6 and below.

In regions outside its hardiness range (Zones 7-9), Carissa Holly is unlikely to survive winter temperatures below 0°F. In Massachusetts, which typically experiences much colder winters, Carissa Holly would need substantial winter protection or may not survive outdoors.

The best time to plant Carissa Holly is in early spring or fall when temperatures are moderate, which allows the roots to establish before summer heat or winter cold.

Does it grow in souther west florida

Yes, Carissa holly (Ilex cornuta 'Carissa') is well-suited to southwest Florida. It tolerates both heat and humidity, and it grows best in full sun to partial shade. This evergreen shrub is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.

How far apart should I plant them

Plant Carissa hollies 3 to 4 feet apart to create a dense, uniform hedge. This spacing allows each plant enough room to spread naturally while maintaining a full, structured appearance over time.

Cold tolerance

Carissa holly is cold hardy in USDA Zones 7–11, tolerating temperatures as low as 0°F.

Is this type of holly deer resistant? Many others are not, except for the native holly.

Yes, Carissa holly is deer resistant due to its spiny foliage, which deters browsing animals.

Am needing to replace Indian Hawthorne bushes around a oak tree. Gets about 6 hours of sun per day. Is the Carissa Holly suitable for this environment?

Yes, Carissa Holly is a suitable replacement. It thrives in areas with partial to full sun, making it a great option for your location.

How tall does this grow

Carissa Holly is a dwarf shrub, typically reaching 2–3 feet tall with a spread of up to 4–5 feet.

What is the best fertilizer to feed Carissa Holly? Thanks!

Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or a specific fertilizer for acid-loving plants. Apply in early spring and midsummer for optimal growth.

Deer proof?

Yes, Carissa Holly is deer-resistant due to its spiny leaves, which deter browsing.

Carissa Holly died in Austin,TX Area in spite of watering whereas rose plant next to it has expanded. Does this require lots of water?

Carissa Holly requires well-draining soil and is sensitive to overwatering. Poor drainage or excessively wet soil could have caused root rot. Check soil conditions and adjust watering practices to avoid soggy roots.

Is it good for Palm Coast, Florida?

Yes, Carissa Holly performs well in Palm Coast, Florida (zone 9), thriving in warm climates with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight.

Does it do well in shade?

Carissa Holly prefers partial to full sun but can tolerate some shade. However, excessive shade may reduce its density and growth rate.

Does it have many red berries?

Carissa Holly produces a small number of red berries, but the primary ornamental appeal comes from its dense, glossy foliage.

How tall does it grow. Looking for dwarf size , slow growing and little maintenance

Yes, Carissa Holly is a dwarf, slow-growing shrub that requires little pruning, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.