Ilex crenata 'Chesapeake'
Ilex crenata 'Chesapeake' is a dense evergreen shrub with small glossy dark green leaves that resemble boxwood but offer improved durability and adaptability. Its naturally compact upright form makes it an excellent choice for low hedges, borders, and foundation plantings where a clean refined look is desired year round.
Height & Spread: 3 - 5 ft x 3 - 5 ft
Bloom Time: Spring
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist well drained slightly acidic soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This species is native to Japan, Korea, and parts of eastern Asia. 'Chesapeake' is a cultivated selection valued for its dense habit and landscape performance rather than native origin.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Female plants produce small black berries that attract songbirds in fall and winter while also providing shelter within its dense evergreen structure.
Bees
- Small spring flowers attract native bees which visit for nectar early in the season.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 3 - 4 ft apart for a dense hedge or 4 - 5 ft apart when planting as individual shrubs.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for foundation plantings, low hedges, and formal borders where its evergreen structure provides year round definition and clean lines.
Companion Plants
- Hydrangea paniculata 'Little Lime' (Panicle Hydrangea) - Adds seasonal blooms that contrast with the evergreen structure.
- Taxus x media 'Densiformis' (Yew) - Complements with similar evergreen texture and form in structured plantings.
- Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' (Sweetspire) - Provides fragrant spring flowers and strong fall color.
- Carex oshimensis 'Evergold' (Sedge) - Introduces fine textured foliage with bright variegation at the base.
- Azalea 'Girard's Rose' (Evergreen Azalea) - Brings vibrant spring color that pairs well with dark green foliage.