Ilex crenata The Perfect Box Alternative

Evergreen Elegance with Year-Round Appeal

Ilex crenata, commonly known as Japanese Holly, is a versatile, evergreen shrub prized for its small, glossy, dark green leaves and dense, compact growth habit. A fantastic alternative to traditional boxwood (Buxus), this low-maintenance shrub is resistant to box blight, making it an excellent choice for hedging, topiary, and foundation planting.

Its naturally neat and tidy form, combined with its hardy, adaptable nature, makes Ilex crenata ideal for both formal and informal gardens. Whether used as a clipped hedge, an accent plant, or in containers, this elegant shrub provides year-round structure and beauty.

• Height:Easily maintained to 1m, will grow over 10 years to 3m
• Spread:Easily maintained to 50m
• Foliage Colour:Green
• Flower Colour:White
• Flowering Season:Summer
• Soil Type:Moist, well drained, loam, sandy, chalk
• Position:Full Sun – Partial shade
• Hardiness:Fully Hardy once established, H6 (down to -15)
• Type:Evergreen Shrub

Why Choose Ilex crenata?

• Box Alternative Similar in appearance but resistant to common box diseases.
• Evergreen & Year-Round Interest Maintains its lush, deep green foliage in all seasons.
• Low-Maintenance & Easy to Grow Requires minimal care and pruning.
• Compact & Dense Growth Ideal for hedging, borders, and topiary.
• Tolerant & Hardy Adapts to various soil types and weather conditions.

How to Grow & Care for Ilex crenata

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Watering: Moist, well-drained soil; drought-tolerant once established.
• Soil: Thrives in acidic to neutral soils with good drainage.
• Pruning: Easily shaped; prune in late spring or summer to maintain form.

Perfect for Any Garden Setting

• Formal Hedges & Borders: Create clean, structured garden edges.
• Topiary & Sculpted Shapes: Easily shaped into elegant designs.
• Container Gardening: Looks stunning in pots for patios and entrances.
• Foundation Planting: A timeless choice for front-of-house landscaping.

Order Your Ilex crenata Today

For a stylish, resilient, and evergreen addition to your garden, Ilex crenata is the perfect choice. Whether you’re looking for a classic hedge, a striking topiary, or a lush border, this versatile shrub delivers year-round beauty.

Limited stock available order now to enhance your garden with Ilex crenata!