Ilex crenata 'Blondie'

Description: A slow-growing evergreen shrub with small deepest green glossy leaves which blend beautifully in any garden. A plant with a compact habit which has become deservedly popular as a topiary plant and an interesting and tougher alternative to Buxus (Box) bringing winter interest and structure to any garden. May also produce black berries in the late autumn.  

Can be obtained in a wide range of sizes and shapes to suit many situations. The shapes can provide formality to the garden, can provide an interesting focus or can bring fun to a garden.

Plants of good size and shape have been grown and trained over a number of years and this is reflected in the price of a good plant - a work of garden art.

Ornamental topiary may be trained on a metal frame and this should be retained to keep the required shape

Uses: Suitable for large scale projects, Japanese gardens with cloud trees or in small courtyard gardens. Excellent as a container plant.

Climate/Position: Adaptable to sun or partial shade.

Height/Spread: The plant may be pruned to a range of sizes and shapes from 60cm to 8 metres

Soil Requirements: Grows on any soils including clay and lime.

Pruning: Ilex crenata grown as topiary plants respond well to pruning. New growth can be trimmed once or twice a year preferably in May and September to retain the plant's shape. Clip as lightly as possible during the first year to allow the roots to establish themselves.

Special Requirements: Feeding container plants throughout summer will ensure healthy plants are maintained.

Additional Inteest: Plant Breeders Rights apply