Ilex crenata

box-leaved holly

Eventual height & spread

Ilex crenata

box-leaved holly

  • 9cm pot
  • £8.99
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
  • 6 × 9cm pots
  • £34.99 £5.83 each
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.99
  • Next/Named Day £10.99
  • 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, Ilex crenata 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:
    Choose a spot with well-drained, fertile soil in full sun to partial shade. Dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball and mix in plenty of organic matter to improve moisture retention and nutrient availability.

    If planting as a hedge, space your plants about 20-30cm (8-12in) apart to allow for good air circulation and proper shaping, and to ensure good soil conatct around each plant. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

    Plants grown as free-standing specimens require minimal pruning - remove diseased or misplaced branches in spring. Trim plants grown as formal hedges 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 to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
    • Humans/Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten

    Goes well with