Ilex crenata is an evergreen plant with upright columnar form that is native to Japan and Eastern China, it is commonly known as Japanese Holly. The foliage is rounded, small, dark-green and glossy. Ilex crenata looks lovely all year round, is slow-growing and has a dense growth habit. Low maintenance and robust, the plant is perfect for hedging and a great alternative to buxus.
Ilex crenata may also be used as a topiary specimen and its compact habit allows it to be shaped into many forms, including spirals, cones or balls as well as hedging. Dainty white flowers bloom in late spring followed by small, insignificant black berries in autumn. Grows well in all but very heavy soil and prefers full sun.
