Ilex crenata Caroline Cone – Neat Evergreen Structure with a Formal Edge (10 Litre Pot, 70–80cm Tall)
Ilex crenata Caroline Cone is a compact, slow-growing evergreen shrub prized for its dense, glossy green foliage and tidy, vertical habit. Supplied in a 10 litre pot at 70–80cm tall, this cone-shaped specimen is ideal for adding structure, symmetry, and year-round interest to formal borders, container displays, or entranceways. With its small, box-like leaves and naturally clipped look, it's an excellent alternative to box (Buxus), especially in areas affected by box blight.
This low-maintenance Japanese holly thrives in a wide range of soil types, responds well to shaping, and holds its form beautifully through the seasons. Whether used in pairs flanking a doorway or as part of a topiary display, Caroline Cone delivers refined style and reliability.
Key Features
-
Foliage: Tiny, dark green leaves with a neat, box-like appearance
-
Form: Naturally upright and narrow, easily shaped into cones or columns
-
Growth Habit: Slow-growing and compact, ideal for low hedges or topiary
-
Evergreen: Maintains colour and structure year-round
Perfect Plant Combinations
-
Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ – softens the form with fragrant purple blooms
-
Heuchera ‘Obsidian’ – provides rich colour contrast at the base
-
Hydrangea paniculata ‘Little Lime’ – pairs beautifully in containers or formal beds
-
Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’ – for height and evergreen interest in classic schemes
-
Allium ‘Purple Sensation’ – adds spring drama to the base of clipped forms
Ideal For
-
Topiary and clipped hedges
-
Container planting for patios or doorways
-
Formal gardens and structured borders
-
Low-allergen and low-maintenance designs
Growing Conditions
-
Position: Full sun to partial shade
-
Soil: Moist but well-drained, neutral to acidic preferred
-
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK
-
Maintenance: Trim lightly in late spring or early summer to maintain shape
Why Choose Ilex crenata Caroline Cone (10L Pot)?
- Perfect alternative to Buxus with no box blight risk
- Neat and elegant structure for containers or borders
- Fully hardy and easy to shape
- Provides evergreen interest in all seasons
Ilex crenata Caroline Cone is a smart and dependable choice for creating stylish evergreen structure in both modern and traditional gardens. Whether planted alone or as part of a formal display, it brings enduring form, foliage, and finesse.
