Ilex Crenata Stoke's Ball 40cm 12 Litre Pot

Ilex crenata ‘Stokes’ Ball – Refined Evergreen Topiary for Clean Structure

Ilex crenata ‘Stokes’ Ball’ is a neatly clipped evergreen topiary, offering a precise, rounded form with fine, dense foliage. A popular alternative to traditional box (Buxus), it delivers the same structured appearance while being more resilient and reliable in modern planting schemes.

The small, glossy green leaves create a smooth, compact surface that holds its shape well, making it ideal for formal designs where clean lines and symmetry are important. Its naturally tight growth allows it to maintain a crisp outline with minimal trimming.

Perfect for containers, patios, and formal borders, it works beautifully as a standalone feature or used in pairs to frame entrances and pathways. Repetition along borders or within parterre planting creates a strong sense of rhythm and order.

Thriving in sun or partial shade, Ilex crenata prefers well-drained soil and benefits from a sheltered position. Hardy and low maintenance, it requires only occasional clipping to retain its shape.

Smart, structured, and versatile, ‘Stokes’ Ball’ is an excellent choice for adding year-round form and refinement to both contemporary and traditional gardens.

Seasonal Highlights

Spring: Fresh growth maintains dense, green form.
Summer: Strong, uniform structure.
Autumn: Evergreen shape continues to define spaces.
Winter: Crisp, architectural form remains intact.

Key Features

Topiary form – Neat, rounded ball shape.
Box alternative – Reliable and resilient.
Dense foliage – Fine, compact growth.
Evergreen – Year-round structure.
Low maintenance – Minimal trimming required.

Perfect For

Formal gardens – Clean, structured planting.
Containers – Ideal for patios and entrances.
Pathways – Repetition for visual impact.
Framing – Doorways and focal points.
Small gardens – Compact and manageable.

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 a year to maintain shape.

Looks Great With

Lavender – Soft contrast beneath.
Grasses – Adds movement around structure.
Topiary mixes – Combine with cones and spirals.
Evergreens – Layered formal planting.
Seasonal bedding – Adds colour at the base.