Ilex cr. 'Dark Green'® + lights 70-80CM PYR

Planting Ilex cr. ‘Dark Green’® Pyramid 70–80 cm

• About the plant and form

  • Compact, evergreen holly (Ilex crenata) clipped into a formal pyramid around 70–80 cm high.

  • Ideal as a statement piece by doors, paths, on patios or balconies, especially when combined with decorative lights.

• Choosing the right position

  • Plant in full sun to partial shade; bright light keeps growth dense and foliage dark green.

  • Choose a sheltered spot away from strong, drying winds.

  • Works well as a pair framing an entrance, or as a single focal point in a large pot.

• Soil and compost

  • Prefers moist but well-drained, fertile soil.

  • Thrives in neutral to slightly acidic conditions; avoid very chalky, lime-rich soil if possible.

  • For containers, use a good-quality, peat-free shrub or ericaceous compost with some added grit for drainage.

• Planting in the ground

  • Dig a planting hole twice the width of the rootball and about the same depth.

  • Loosen the base of the hole and mix in compost or leaf mould to improve structure.

  • Position the plant so the top of the rootball is level with surrounding soil.

  • Backfill, firm gently with your hands and water thoroughly.

  • Keep any integrated lighting cable above soil level and clear of sharp stones or spades.

• Planting in containers

  • Use a pot at least 30–35 cm wide with generous drainage holes.

  • Add a layer of crocks or gravel to the base for drainage and stability.

  • Fill around the rootball with compost, firming lightly to remove air pockets.

  • Water well after planting and allow excess water to drain freely.

  • Arrange the lights neatly around the pyramid after planting, keeping the plug, transformer or battery box outside the pot and above wet soil.

Everyday Care, Watering and Feeding

• Watering

  • Keep soil or compost consistently moist but never waterlogged.

  • In the ground, water regularly during the first year and during prolonged dry spells.

  • In containers, check moisture often; water when the top few centimetres feel dry.

  • Reduce watering slightly in winter, but do not allow the rootball to dry out completely.

• Feeding

  • In spring, apply a slow-release, balanced fertiliser around the base of the plant.

  • Container plants benefit from a light liquid feed every 4–6 weeks from late spring to midsummer.

  • Avoid heavy feeding late in the season, which can produce soft growth vulnerable to frost.

• Pruning and shaping the pyramid

  • Trim lightly once or twice a year to maintain the crisp pyramid outline.

  • Best times are late spring and again in late summer if needed.

  • Use sharp, clean shears or secateurs and follow the existing shape, removing only the outer few centimetres of growth.

  • Avoid cutting back hard into old, bare wood, which may not reshoot well.

• Caring for the lights

  • Use only lights rated for outdoor use if the plant is outside.

  • Check cables regularly for damage and replace if any wear is visible.

  • Keep plugs, transformers and battery boxes dry and off the soil surface.

  • Use a timer if desired so the lights come on automatically and avoid overheating by leaving them on unnecessarily.

Seasonal Care, Winter Protection and Problem Solving

• Winter and frost protection

  • Ilex crenata is generally hardy, but container-grown plants are more vulnerable to root damage.

  • In very cold spells, move pots to a sheltered wall, wrap the container in fleece or bubbles, and raise it on pot feet to improve drainage.

  • Brush off heavy snow to prevent branches being bent out of shape.

• Pests and diseases

  • Usually low-maintenance, but watch for scale insects or aphids on young shoots; remove by hand or with an appropriate treatment.

  • Yellowing leaves may indicate poor drainage or high pH; improve drainage and consider an ericaceous feed.

  • Remove any dead or diseased twigs promptly and dispose of them with household waste rather than composting.

• Long-term maintenance and display ideas

  • Repot container plants every two to three years, refreshing compost and gently trimming the roots if pot-bound.

  • Top-dress annually by removing the top few centimetres of old compost and replacing with fresh.

  • Underplant with seasonal colour (such as violas, heathers or small grasses) to soften the base of the pyramid.

  • Use single specimens as focal points or pairs to create a formal, welcoming entrance, letting the lights provide extra interest in the darker months

• Size
  70-80 CM PYR C10

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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