The glossy green Ilex crenata 'Convexa' is the most handsome when clipped into shapes. Specialist nurseries can supply this in the usual variety of shapes, from spiral to cone to round.

Ilex crenata 'Mariesii' grows into a wonderfully congested form of small leaves held tightly to the stem.It is one of many garden-worthy Japanese holly cultivars, but this particular selection is ...