Benefits of Planting Japanese Holly Hedging

This evergreen hedging species is a fantastic alternative to Box or Buxus sempervirens hedging for despite being a type of Holly, it is actually very similar to our popular Box hedge plants with the following added benefits: it is resistant to Box blight (similar to Euonymus Jean Hugues, another Box lookalike), it is not prone to leaf scorch when pruned and Japanese Holly also regenerates from old wood (so can be re-shaped if it has been a bit neglected over time). Ilex crenata hedging is generally tougher than Box hedging so it's good for northern or cold areas. See more options in our box hedging alternatives section.

Japanese Holly can be kept as a small neat hedge or edging to a border or path, or allowed to grow a bit into a medium height hedge (good at approx 1m height) or trimmed into a topiary shape. See our Topiary range for Ilex crenata topiary options or for alternative species with similar characteristics see our range of low growing hedging plants.

Ilex crenata is very easy to grow and likes all situations other than wet soils or very dense shade.

Pot grown and instant Japanese holly hedging plants are available all year round. For even more information on our entire range of Holly. See our ultimate Holly hedging guide.

You’ll see our recommended planting densities for each size and root type listed next to the products below. We suggest that you use these as a guide, taking into consideration how long you’re willing to wait to see your finished hedge. As a rough indication bare roots can be planted at anything from 3 to 7 per metre and cell grown between 4 and 6 - the higher densities here would need to be planted in a double staggered row or zig-zag.

For more information on planting distances please see our planting density advice section. Prices shown are the price per plant unless otherwise stated.

Ilex Crenata (Japanese Holly) can tolerate a hardy pruning, but pruning promotes new growth which is susceptable to cold weathe and frosts. You can trim off branch tips to remove dead wood and make the shape more aesthetically appealing. But Japanese holly pruning can also be severe. Like boxwood, Japanese holly plants tolerate shearing, which makes the shrub a good choice for an evergreen hedge.

Free delivery is available on all orders providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:


There are some exceptions to the standard delivery pricing structure, which relate to deliveries to more remote areas, overseas, or extremely tall plants requiring specialist delivery - for more information see the Delivery Information Page

It's Quick! - Please note current delivery is 3 - 7 working days! (Some trees can be 7-10 days as standard - see product pages for info.)

Next Day Delivery is Available - We can offer next day delivery on eligible species and sizes for an additional £12 incl VAT. Call 01257 263 873 to find out if your order is eligible.

It's Convenient - no need to wait in all day to sign, we don't need a signature (the odd, larger order may require a signature but will be delivered at a mutually agreeable time)

It's Tried & Tested - we use only couriers who have shown consistency in their efficiency & care

* Please note that delivery costs are based on the final order amount in your cart after any discounts have been applied.

Hedges Direct 12 Month Plant Guarantee

Our plants are guaranteed for 12 months after delivery subject to specific criteria. Visit our Hedges Direct Plant Guarantee Page for full details.