Ilex crenata 'Jenny'® 6-pack clayette

Description and Characteristics

Ilex crenata 'Bullata' is a dense, slow-growing evergreen shrub notable for its dark, glossy, convex (bullate) leaves, giving it a distinctive textured appearance. Commonly referred to as a Japanese Holly, this cultivar is often chosen as a boxwood alternative due to its similar structure and form but superior resistance to box blight and pests.

The leaves are small, deep green, rounded to oval, and distinctly curled or blistered in appearance—hence the name ‘Bullata’. Its tight, compact growth habit makes it ideal for low hedging, topiary, and foundation planting. While it produces tiny white flowers in late spring, these are inconspicuous. On female plants (if pollinated), small black berries may follow, though 'Bullata' is often chosen more for its foliage and structure than for fruiting.

Typically growing to 1–1.5 m in height and spread, ‘Bullata’ is perfect for formal gardens, bonsai, or edging in low-maintenance designs. It responds well to clipping and shaping, making it an excellent choice for structured planting.

• Dense, slow-growing evergreen shrub

• Distinctive blistered, convex leaves in rich, glossy green

• Height & spread: 1–1.5 m (easily kept smaller with pruning)

• Excellent box substitute for hedging and topiary

• Shade-tolerant and very hardy

Growing Conditions and Maintenance

Ilex crenata 'Bullata' is low maintenance, long-lived, and adaptable to a wide range of garden situations. It is often chosen for formal layouts, Japanese gardens, and areas where boxwood struggles.

• Light Requirements:

  • Grows in full sun to partial shade

  • Tolerates more shade than many other evergreen shrubs

  • Foliage remains deep green even in lower light conditions

• Soil Preferences:

  • Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soils

  • Will not thrive in alkaline (limey) soils—yellowing may occur

  • Ideal for loamy or sandy soils rich in organic matter

• Watering Needs:

  • Keep soil evenly moist during establishment

  • Once established, relatively drought-tolerant

  • Avoid overwatering in heavy or poorly drained soil

• Feeding:

  • Apply ericaceous fertiliser in spring to support leaf colour and growth

  • Mulch annually with compost or pine bark to maintain soil acidity

• Pruning and Maintenance:

  • Prune or shape in late spring or early summer

  • Tolerates frequent clipping for formal hedging or topiary shapes

  • Remove any reverted or overly vigorous growth to maintain form

• Winter Care:

  • Hardy in Zones 6–9 (RHS H5–H6)

  • Withstands cold winters and frost without leaf damage

  • Protect from cold drying winds in very exposed sites

Garden Uses, Companion Plants, and Design Benefits

Ilex crenata 'Bullata' is a go-to plant for structure, foliage texture, and neat form. It is widely used in both traditional and contemporary settings, offering year-round interest and tidy outlines.

• Design Applications:

  • Ideal for low formal hedging, edging paths, or framing borders

  • Excellent for topiary balls, pyramids, or cloud pruning

  • Great in Japanese gardens, modern landscapes, or as a box alternative

• Companion Plants:

  • Pairs beautifully with Camellia, Rhododendron, Azalea, and Pieris (all acid lovers)

  • Works well with Heuchera, Ferns, or Hosta in shaded beds

  • Complements gravel paths, clipped yew, or ornamental grasses for contrast

• Container Use:

  • Excellent in pots for patios or entrances

  • Use ericaceous, free-draining compost with added grit

  • Feed annually and water in dry weather

• Wildlife and Pollinator Notes:

  • Flowers may attract bees, though not highly ornamental

  • Dense foliage offers shelter for birds and insects

  • Berries may form on female plants if a male is nearby for pollination

• Pest and Disease Resistance:

  • Resistant to box blight and box tree moth, making it a strong box substitute

  • May suffer chlorosis in alkaline soils—treat with iron or replant in acidic conditions

  • Generally trouble-free with minimal issues