Ilex crenata

box-leaved holly

Eventual height & spread

Ilex crenata

box-leaved holly

  • 9cm pot
  • £8.99
  • available to order from spring
  • 6 × 9cm pots
  • £34.99 £53.94
  • available to order from spring
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.95
  • Position: Full sun or partial shade
  • Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
  • Rate of growth: Slow
  • Flowering period: May to June
  • Hardiness: Fully hardy


The leaves of this evergreen holly are glossy and deep green, and as they are relatively small, it can be kept clipped into shape and used as an alternative to box. A bushy shrub, it can be trained as a small tree (in Japan it is often 'cloud' pruned to form a magnificent focal point or specimen), and it will also make an attractive, year-round hedge or screen.

To find out more about how to plant a hedge, click here


  • Garden care:
    Plants grown as free-standing specimens require minimal pruning - remove diseased or misplaced branches in spring. Trim plants grown as formal hedges or topiary in late summer. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant.
    • Humans/Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten

    Goes well with