Ilex crenata 'CONVEXA' Japanese holly, box-leaved holly

Convexa is a variety of Japanese box-leaved holly which is most popular with bonsai growers and is ideal for topiaries. Compared to the species it grows denser and more compact so when pruned or clipped it never leaves an empty hole. The very glossy leaves are mid to dark green, 1-2 cm long, they are similar to English box but their edges are curled downwards. Fruits are small, non-edible glossy black berries in autumn. It can be pruned and clipped in almost any way from spring until mid summer. Japanese holly is usually trouble-free, it tolerates any soil but for best results, however, use medium fertile, slightly acidic, moist but well-drained soil. If you have a bonsai or topiary we suggest covering it with fleece in harsh winters in order to avoid possible burning of the top layer leaves. In frost-free periods of winter provide extra watering.