Ilex crenata 'Green Luster' is a compact densely branched evergreen shrub prized for its fine textured glossy dark green foliage that resembles boxwood. Resistant to common boxwood pests and diseases, it makes an excellent low hedge or foundation plant. Its adaptability to pruning and tolerance for urban conditions make it a reliable choice for structured landscape elements.
Height & Spread: 3 - 4 ft x 3 - 4 ft
Bloom Time: Spring (flowers are inconspicuous)
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, acidic, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; water regularly in extreme heat
Deer Resistance: Occasionally browsed but typically avoided due to dense texture
Native Status
Native to eastern Asia particularly Japan, Korea, and China. It is not native to North America but has been widely naturalized in cultivated landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Produces small black berries that attract songbirds such as mockingbirds, catbirds, and robins in late fall and early winter.
Beneficial Insects
- Inconspicuous spring flowers provide minor nectar sources for small solitary bees and predatory wasps.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 24 - 36 in apart for hedge effect or mass planting; space further apart for individual specimens.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for low hedges, formal borders, container plantings, and foundation landscapes where evergreen texture is desired.
Companion Plants
- Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea) - Adds seasonal interest with bold leaves and white blooms that age to pink.
- Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' - Grass like texture and blue flower spikes enhance evergreen structure and fill ground space.
- Helleborus 'Ivory Prince' - Winter blooming evergreen perennial that harmonizes with Ilex in part shade conditions.
- Pachysandra terminalis - Low evergreen groundcover that complements Ilex's upright form while keeping weeds at bay.
- Heuchera 'Obsidian' - Deep purple black foliage adds a striking contrast to the glossy green leaves of Ilex.