The Dwarf Chinese Holly or Ilex Cornuta Rotunda belongs to the Family Aquifoliaceae. The compact broadleaf evergreen shrub grows in a mound to a height of four feet and a width of eight feet.

The rectangular polished dark green leaves possess five to seven spines.

Hollies are dioecious and bear either female or male flowers in the spring. For fruiting both male and female plants are required. Only the female produces berries but a male tree must be nearby for fruit production. About one male tree to ten females insures pollination and berry production.

Deer do not disturb the holly but voles can destroy its roots.