East facing, north facing, south facing, west facing
Soil
Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
Commonly known as box-leaved holly, Ilex crenata is a slow-growing evergreen shrub often chosen as a more robust alternative to box (Buxus sempervirens), owing to its resistance to box blight, box tree moth and low temperatures.
Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' has deep-green, convex leaves that more closely match those of true box leaves. Clipped into topiary shapes, it's ideal for adding year-round structure to borders or for growing in large containers.
For best results, grow Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' in full sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. Acidic soils are preferred, but they'll usually tolerate growing in chalky soils.
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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.