Box Leaved Hedging

Box Leaved Hedging

Ilex crenata 'Dark Green'

This Product is Available Now.

Supplied as bushy pot grown plants approximately 6" - 8" (15 - 20 cm) tall (including pot)..

New to the UK, this is the true alternative to traditional Box Hedging as it does not suffer from the disease problems that are now sadly damaging and in some cases destroying beautiful hedges and topiary formed from it.

Whist being a member of the Holly family, the leaf is all but identical to traditional Box and is certainly not prickly! Growth habit is also similar to traditional Box hedging, though it does have several added benefits in that it is not prone to leaf scorch when it is pruned and that it will also break fresh growth from 'brown wood' - so if more zealous pruning is required and you cut into areas of bare stem new growth will appear.

Also of huge benefit - and probably the most important issue - is that it does not suffer from Leaf Spot, Rust or Box Blight - the latter of which is sadly causing so much damage to new and established Box hedges alike.

This plant is so versatile - it can be grown into a lovely evergreen hedge up to 12 feet (3.5 metres) tall or can be kept trimmed short  and tidy for the traditional potager edging effect. Alternatively it is perfect for topiary and can be trained and pruned into allsorts of shapes - it looks particularly lovely as a round ball!

In late May to June it produces delicate white flowers; come the Autumn it bares small black berries which are all but insignificant.

• Evergreen.
• Compact habit.
• Winter hardy if grown in the ground - container grown plants would benefit from some Winter root protection.
• Plant 12" (30 cm) apart.
• Ultimate height 8 - 12 feet (2.5 - 3.5 metres). Can be trimmed to any height above 8" (20 cm). Average annual growth rate 8 - 12" (20 - 30 cm).
• Ultimate width 6 feet (1.8 metres) plus - but can be trimmed to any width in excess of 6" (15 cm).
• Grows well in most soil types (including chalky and clay) except those prone to laying very wet.
• Likes a humus rich, well drained soil.
• Suitable for most aspects from full sun to partial shade.
• Plant all year round.
• Berries are poisonous.
• This plant is protected by the Plant Variety Rights. Illegal propagation without a licence will lead to prosecution.

Cultural Guidance.

• On Arrival!
• Under no circumstances should you use any stimulants, fertiliser or bonemeal at planting time as such products will ‘burn’ any new root growth and actually slow your plants’ development!
• Water thoroughly if the ground is dry.

• After Care.
• It is essential to keep your developing hedge free of weed competition.
• In extended dry periods ensure your plants are watered thoroughly at least once a week; this is even more critical on lighter soils.
• Trimming / pruning is best undertaken in May and September.

Supplied as bushy pot grown plants approximately 6" - 8" (15 - 20 cm) tall (including pot)..

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