Ilex meserveae ‘Heckenfee’ Instant Solitaire 160/180cm – Striking, Evergreen Holly with Red Berries & Dense Structure for Instant Impact

The Ilex meserveae ‘Heckenfee’ Instant Solitaire (160/180cm) is an impressive, mature evergreen holly specimen, carefully grown to deliver immediate structure, privacy, and beauty to the landscape. Renowned for its glossy dark green spiny leaves and vibrant red berries, this female variety combines ornamental appeal with practical functionality. Supplied at an established height of 160–180cm, it offers an instant effect, ideal for creating ready-made screens, focal points, or architectural planting in gardens and larger outdoor spaces.

Seasonal Beauty & Growth

Spring: Fresh new foliage emerges, enhancing the plant’s dense, rich greenery.
Summer: Maintains deep, glossy green foliage and begins forming berries after pollination.
Autumn: Clusters of bright red berries ripen, adding vibrant colour and wildlife value.
Winter: Evergreen leaves and long-lasting berries provide structure and visual interest in the colder months.

Structure & Form

• Height: Supplied at an established 160/180cm for immediate landscape impact.

• Ultimate Height: 1.5 - 2.5m
• Ultimate Spread: 1 - 1.5m

• Foliage: Dense, glossy dark green leaves with classic holly spines, offering texture and security.

• Berries: Produces abundant, bright red berries in autumn if pollinated by a male holly (e.g., Ilex ‘Heckenstar’).

• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy, and well-branched, perfect for instant hedging or standalone planting.

Perfect for Various Landscapes

• Instant Screening: Provides immediate privacy and security as a mature evergreen.

• Focal Points: A bold, architectural specimen for patios, courtyards, or formal gardens.

• Wildlife-Friendly Gardens: Berries attract birds, while dense branches offer shelter.

• Formal Hedges & Boundaries: Can be used to establish an instant, structured hedge.

Growing Conditions & Care

• Position: Thrives in full sun or partial shade.

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil; adaptable to a range of pH levels.

• Hardiness: Extremely hardy, tolerating cold, wind, and exposed sites.

• Maintenance: Low-maintenance; prune lightly in late spring or summer to shape.

• Pollination: Plant near a male holly (e.g., Ilex ‘Heckenstar’) for reliable berry production.

Why Choose Ilex meserveae ‘Heckenfee’ Instant Solitaire 160/180cm?

• Instant impact with a mature height of 160/180cm.

• Dense evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy and structure.

• Produces vibrant red berries (with male pollinator nearby) for seasonal colour and wildlife appeal.

• Hardy, resilient, and low-maintenance.

• Perfect for instant hedging, screens, or architectural planting.

Ideal Plant Combinations

• Pair with Ilex ‘Heckenstar’ (male holly) to ensure berry production.

• Underplant with hellebores, spring bulbs, or low-growing evergreens for seasonal layering.

• Combine with ornamental grasses or shrubs for textural contrast in mixed borders.

The Ilex meserveae ‘Heckenfee’ Instant Solitaire (160/180cm) is a superb choice for gardeners seeking an instant, evergreen solution with year-round interest, vibrant seasonal colour, and enduring architectural beauty. Whether used as a feature plant, privacy screen, or formal hedge, it brings immediate elegance and structure to any outdoor space.

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.

Ilex mes. Heckenfee Instant Solitaire 160/180cm Root Ball Grasslands Nursery Winter Hardy Slow Growing Evergreen

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.