Botanical Name: Ilex crenata 'Bennett's Compact'
Type: Shrub
Growth Habit: This compact holly variety features a dense, rounded form that typically reaches heights of 2 to 3 feet and spreads up to 3 feet wide. Its tidy growth makes it an ideal choice for low hedges or foundation plantings.
Foliage: The leaves are small, glossy, and dark green, providing a lush backdrop throughout the year. The foliage is evergreen, ensuring that your landscape maintains its vibrancy even in the winter months.
Hardiness: Ilex c. 'Bennett's Compact' is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9, making it adaptable to a variety of climates. It thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade, although it performs best in full sun.
Maintenance: This shrub is low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape. It is also resistant to many common pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for gardeners seeking durability.
Uses: 'Bennett's Compact' is versatile in landscape design. It can be used as a standalone specimen, in mass plantings, or as part of a mixed border. Its compact size allows it to fit well in smaller gardens or urban settings.
Additional Features: This variety of Ilex is also known for its ability to attract birds, providing a natural habitat for local wildlife. While it does not produce berries, its dense foliage offers shelter and nesting opportunities.
Consider Ilex c. 'Bennett's Compact' for a refined, evergreen addition to your garden that combines aesthetic appeal with practical benefits.