Ilex crenata 'TWIGGY' Japanese holly

Many people mistake Japanese holly for buxus thanks to its small, evergreen leaves. Twiggy is slightly different. Its leaves are lighter green, very soft green as they emerge and mid green in summer along deep burgundy red branches. They are also evergreen, narrowly elliptic, gently serrated at margins and thanks to their colour the shrubs always looks fresh.

Twiggy holly is a fantastic plant for me because of its mound-forming, cushion-like habit which is ideal for Mediterranean-style gardens. You

It can be pruned and clipped in almost any way in early spring or by end July. Japanese holly is usually trouble-free, tolerates any soil and can withstand summer dry spells once established. However, for best results and leaf colour grow it in medium fertile, moist but well-drained acid soil. Fully hardy to min. -26°C (USDA zone 5b).

Last update: 13-02-2012