Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, full shade, partial shade
Aspect:
East facing, north facing, south facing, west facing

Soil

Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Commonly known as Japanese holly or box-leaved holly, Ilex crenata is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub often chosen as a more robust alternative to box (Buxus sempervirens), as it's not affected by box blight or box moth, and is more tolerant of low temperatures. It's perfect for growing as a green foil behind more colourful plants, clips nicely into a ball, and works well in pots.

Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' has deep-green, convex leaves that closely resemble those of true box leaves more than other varieties.

Grow Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' in full sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. For best results grow in acidic soil, but neutral to alkaline soils are also tolerated. Prune hedges or topiary in late summer – plants growing as freestanding shrubs need little pruning. Mulch annually in autumn with home-made compost or well-rotted manure.

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Advice on buying Ilex crenata 'Dark Green'

  • Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' may be available from your local garden centre or nursery, but you will have more options online
  • Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting

Where to buy Ilex crenata 'Dark Green'

Plant calendar

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Ilex ‘Dark Green’ and wildlife

Ilex ‘Dark Green’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Ilex ‘Dark Green’ poisonous?

Ilex ‘Dark Green’ causes an upset stomach and is harmful if ingested. Its foliage and fruit are toxic.

Toxic to:
Is known to attract Cats
Cats
Is known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is known to attract Horses
Horses
Is known to attract People
People
No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Plants that go well with Ilex 'Dark Green'
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