Ilex crenata 'Caroline Upright' – 80/100cm Root Ball

A Neat, Evergreen Alternative to Box for Elegant Formal Hedges

Ilex crenata ‘Caroline Upright’ is a refined, slow-growing Japanese holly cultivar prized for its small, glossy leaves and naturally upright, compact habit. At 80–100cm tall and supplied as a root ball, this evergreen is ideal for creating neat, low-maintenance hedging or structural garden features—especially in box blight-prone areas.

Often chosen as a box substitute due to its similar appearance and excellent tolerance of shaping, ‘Caroline Upright’ thrives in a wide range of soils and conditions. Its tight branching and tidy form make it well-suited for formal edging, topiary, or evergreen structure in modern and traditional planting schemes.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New flushes of fresh green foliage emerge, adding density and vibrancy to the plant’s structure.

Summer:
Foliage matures to a deep, glossy green. Tiny, inconspicuous white flowers may appear.

Autumn/Winter:
Retains rich colour and form, offering reliable winter structure with no leaf drop.

Key Features

• Supplied Height: 80–100cm

• Form: Naturally upright and columnar; dense and easily clipped

• Foliage: Small, oval, dark green leaves – box-like in appearance

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

• Ultimate Height: Up to 2m+ if left untrimmed

• Hardiness: Fully hardy throughout the UK

• Root Ball: Field-grown for strong establishment; lift and plant during the dormant season

Ideal For

• Low Formal Hedges: A healthy, blight-free box alternative

• Topiary: Excellent for shaping into cones, balls, or spirals

• Garden Borders: Adds evergreen structure in mixed borders or along paths

• Japanese or Minimalist Designs: Clean lines and compact growth suit modern schemes

• Containers: Performs well in pots with consistent watering and feeding

Planting & Care

• Position: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Moist but well-drained; tolerant of most soil types, including acidic

• Watering: Keep well-watered during the first growing season

• Spacing: 30–40cm apart for a dense hedge

• Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring

• Pruning: Trim once or twice annually for shape and density; responds well to clipping

Why Choose Ilex crenata ‘Caroline Upright’?

• Resilient box substitute – avoids common issues like box blight and caterpillar

• Neat, evergreen structure all year round

• Easily maintained with minimal pruning

• Highly versatile – from formal edging to container topiary

• Tidy, elegant form even when left untrimmed

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.

Pallet Deal Ilex Crenata Caroline Upright 80/100cm Root Ball x 20 Grasslands Nursery Winter Hardy Average Rate Of Growth 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.