What cultivar is known as Box Leaf Japanese Holly?

The cultivar commonly known as Box Leaf Japanese Holly is indeed Ilex crenata 'Helleri.' This plant is appreciated for its dense, compact growth habit and small, glossy leaves, which make it an excellent choice for low hedges, borders, and foundation plantings. It is particularly valued in landscape design for its ability to withstand pruning and maintain a tidy appearance.

Ilex crenata, the species name for Japanese Holly, encompasses a variety of cultivars, but 'Helleri' stands out for its boxy form and smaller, rounder leaves compared to other cultivars like 'Convexa,' which tends to have a slightly different leaf shape and growth habit. Ilex aquifolium, known as English Holly, is a different species altogether, and Ligustrum japonicum is a type of privet, not a holly. Recognizing these distinctions helps in proper plant identification and selection for various landscape applications.