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

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Bare root plants are generally cheaper than potted plants.
2. Variety: Greater selection of species available.
3. Establishment: Often establish quickly in the garden.

Cons:

1. Timing: Must be planted during the dormant season (late autumn to early spring).
2. Initial Care: Require careful handling and timely planting.

Preparation for Planting:

1. Soak Roots: Immerse the roots in water for a few hours before planting to rehydrate them.
2. Inspect: Trim any damaged roots with clean, sharp scissors.
3. Dig Hole: Ensure the hole is wide enough to spread roots out without bending them.
4. Consider Cutting back: Cutting back by up to 1/3, especially on taller plants will reduce possible losses and improve plant establishment.

Planting Process:

1. Plant Depth: Plant at the same depth they were grown in the nursery, indicated by the soil mark on the stem.
2. Fill Hole: Backfill with soil, ensuring no air pockets around the roots.
3. Water: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Possibility of Losses:

• Adjustment Period: Some plants may not survive the transition due to transplant shock or poor initial care.
• Mitigation: Proper planting techniques and aftercare, like regular watering and mulching, can reduce losses.

Aftercare Tips:

1. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period.
2. Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. Protection: Protect young plants from extreme weather and pests.

Bare root planting is a straightforward, economical way to enhance your garden, provided you follow these essential steps to ensure successful establishment.

Full Guide to planting bare root can be found here

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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.