Ilex Crenata Green Hedge 25-30cm Bare Root Delivery from November

Ilex Crenata Green Hedge 20/30cm Bare Root

A Box Alternative with Year-Round Glossy Green Foliage

Ilex crenata, also known as Japanese Holly, is a brilliant evergreen shrub ideal for low hedging, topiary, and formal borders. These 20–30cm bare root plants offer an economical way to establish a neat, dense hedge with a strong visual impact once grown on. Similar in appearance to Box (Buxus), Ilex crenata has small, dark green leaves but is far more resilient to box blight and caterpillar damage.

Perfect for modern and traditional garden schemes alike, this slow-growing, clip-friendly plant is ideal for edging paths, parterre designs, or separating garden areas with elegant structure.

Key Features

• Supplied Height: 20–30cm (bare root, field grown)

• Foliage: Tiny, glossy green evergreen leaves

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate – around 10–20cm per year

• Ultimate Height: Up to 1.5m if left unclipped

• Habit: Dense, bushy, and naturally compact

• Thorns: None – safe for family gardens

Planting & Spacing

• Planting Time: Late autumn to early spring (during dormancy)

• Spacing:

  • 4–6 plants per metre for a low hedge

  • Closer spacing gives quicker fill-in

• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils preferred

• Aspect: Full sun or partial shade

• Maintenance: Trim once or twice annually to keep shape

Why Choose Ilex Crenata for Hedges?

• Box-like look without the common problems

• Compact form perfect for borders, knot gardens and edging

• Evergreen cover all year round

• Tolerant of pruning – ideal for tight, formal shapes

• Hardier and healthier than box in many conditions