Ilex × 'Nellie R. Stevens' – Formal Evergreen Screening with Seasonal Interest
(Full Standard Pleached, 180cm Stem, 120 x 120cm Frame)

Ilex × ‘Nellie R. Stevens’ is a handsome evergreen holly offering year-round structure, dense glossy foliage, and seasonal colour. Supplied here as a full standard pleached tree on a tall 180cm clear stem with a 120 x 120cm trained frame, it’s an ideal solution for elegant screening above walls or fencing, creating privacy without sacrificing ground-level space.

This self-fertile hybrid reliably produces bright red berries in autumn and winter, bringing wildlife value and winter cheer. Its rich green leaves are subtly spined and highly ornamental, making it a smart and stylish choice for formal gardens, courtyards, or urban landscapes.

Key Features

• Foliage: Glossy, deep green evergreen leaves

• Stem: 180cm
• Girth: 10/12cm
• Frame Above: 120 x 120cm

• Fruit: Abundant red berries in autumn–winter (self-fertile)

• Form: Pleached canopy on a tall, straight 180cm stem – ideal for screening

• Evergreen: Provides all-season privacy and structure

Perfect Plant Combinations

• Sarcococca confusa – fragrant winter underplanting for shaded spots

• Pittosporum ‘Tom Thumb’ – rich purple foliage contrast

• Helleborus orientalis – adds subtle seasonal flowers beneath

• Ferns and ornamental grasses – soften the base with texture

• Box or yew topiary – repeat evergreen structure below the pleached frame

Ideal For

• Privacy screening above walls or fences

• Formal and contemporary garden designs

• Creating green ‘walls’ between spaces

• Urban courtyards and narrow borders

Growing Conditions

• Position: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil – tolerant of a range of conditions

• Hardiness: Fully hardy throughout the UK

• Maintenance: Prune in late spring/summer to maintain the frame shape

Why Choose Ilex ‘Nellie R. Stevens’ (Full Std Pleached, 180cm Stem)?

• Tall, architectural evergreen screening
• Seasonal interest with bright red berries
• Low-maintenance and highly adaptable
• Provides instant impact and long-term structure

This pleached Ilex ‘Nellie R. Stevens’ is a refined and practical solution for modern garden privacy, blending classic structure with evergreen reliability and decorative appeal. Perfect for stylish boundaries, living fences, or green architecture.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.