Ilex crenata ‘Dark Green’ – 1/2 Standard Evergreen Topiary with 80cm Stem
Ilex crenata ‘Dark Green’ trained as a 1/2 standard is a refined evergreen topiary, featuring a dense rounded head of rich dark green foliage raised on a clear 80cm stem. Offering the classic look of traditional box topiary, it is widely valued as a reliable and elegant alternative to Buxus.
The small, glossy leaves form a compact canopy that clips cleanly and maintains its shape with minimal effort. The raised standard form adds height and definition, making it ideal for formal planting schemes where symmetry and structure are important.
Supplied in a 12 litre pot, it is perfectly suited to patios, entrances, terraces, and structured borders. Used individually, it creates a smart focal point, while paired planting delivers a balanced and highly architectural appearance.
Its naturally dense growth and evergreen foliage provide year-round interest, ensuring strong garden structure in every season. Hardy and easy to maintain, it thrives in sun or partial shade and performs best in moist, well-drained soil.
Elegant, versatile, and low maintenance, this Ilex standard is an excellent choice for adding timeless structure and evergreen form to the garden.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Fresh dark green growth enhances density.
Summer: Rounded canopy maintains neat structure.
Autumn: Evergreen form continues to define spaces.
Winter: Strong architectural silhouette remains attractive.
Key Features
1/2 standard form – Rounded head on 80cm clear stem.
Dense foliage – Compact dark green leaves.
Box alternative – Formal evergreen structure.
Evergreen – Year-round interest.
Low maintenance – Easy to clip and shape.
Perfect For
Entrances – Framing doors and pathways.
Containers – Ideal for patios and terraces.
Formal gardens – Structured planting schemes.
Feature planting – Elegant evergreen focal point.
Symmetrical layouts – Strong architectural effect.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Sun or partial shade.
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK.
Care: Trim lightly once or twice yearly to maintain shape.
Looks Great With
Lavender – Soft contrast beneath.
Topiary forms – Combine with cones and spirals.
Grasses – Adds movement around structure.
Evergreens – Layered formal planting.
Seasonal bedding – Adds colour at the base.
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.