Rotunda Holly Ilex cornuta 'Rotunda'

‘Rotunda' is a female cultivar of Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) that forms a dense, compact, rounded shrub that is significantly smaller than Chinese holly. It is a member of the holly family (Aquifoliaceae). 

This holly can be grown in full to partial sun and is tolerant of heat and humidity, making it a good choice for the south. It requires little care and is moderately salt tolerant and drought-tolerant. It does well in clay and alkaline soils as long as they are well-drained. Prune in the late winter to control its size, if needed. Mature plants do not tolerate root disturbance, so it is best to site the plant in its permanent position, preferably one that provides winter protection for the first year or two.

This dwarf broadleaf evergreen shrub originated in the 1930s at a nursery in Louisiana. It is a female clone that was initially reported to be sterile, but trees 25 years old or older will produce fruits, although they are often obscured by the dense, spiny leaves. The leaves are deep green, thick, glossy, rectangular-shaped, and have 5 to 7 spines. 

The fruit and evergreen leaves make for winter interest in the landscape. The spiny leaves also make this a good choice for a low barrier, border or hedge. ‘Rotunda’ holly can be planted in small groups or along a foundation. 

Quick ID Hints:

• dwarf, rounded, mounding broadleaf evergreen 3 to 6 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide
• thick, glossy, dark green leaves, rectangular with 5 to 7 spines
• fragrant, inconspicuous white flowers
• typically no fruits, if present red berry-like drupes

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: This plant can have pest problems. Holly leaf miners, scale, whiteflies, and spider mites are occasional insect pests. Powdery mildew, leaf spot, leaf rot, and tar spot are potential disease problems. It is resistant to phytophthora root rot. Depending on their planting location this shrub can exhibit chlorosis, leaf drop, or leaf scorch from high pH soils.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common diseases and insect pests.

VIDEO created by Ryan Contreras for “Landscape Plant Materials I:  Deciduous Hardwoods and Conifers or Landscape Plant Materials II: Spring Flowering Trees and Shrubs” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University

More information on Ilex cornuta.