Ilex crenata Luxus - Crenate Holly

Ilex crenata Luxus or 'Annys5' is a new variety of crenate holly that combines looks, robustness, and reliability. It is a compact and round plant with a diameter of about 0.50 to 0.60 m. Its foliage, composed of small dark green leaves all year round, is healthy and resistant to diseases. Due to its less vigorous growth, it requires less pruning than other ilex crenata varieties. This male plant, which does not produce toxic fruits, is safe for children who might ingest them. It is an excellent plant to use as a border to define a flower bed or in mass to create geometric shapes, as well as in pots or containers on a balcony or terrace. Often used in Japanese gardens, it can be used for topiary art! It is a hardy plant that does not mind the cold, but it requires an acidic, fairly moist, well-drained soil, in shade or partial shade, or even in the sun, provided the soil does not dry out.

The crenate holly or Japanese holly, Ilex crenata in Latin, belongs to the aquifoliaceae family. Although native to the Far East, it has been introduced, cultivated, and selected in Japan for centuries, where it is appreciated as a typical tree in Japanese garden art. Unlike common holly (Ilex aquifolium), the crenate holly has non-spiny leaves that resemble those of boxwood (Buxus). It is a species that is generally dense and branching, and it tolerates pruning well. Therefore, it is commonly used for topiary and bonsai.

Ilex crenata 'Annys5', also commercially known as Luxus Hedge, is a recent selection obtained by André van Nijnatten in Zundert, the Netherlands. It has a surprisingly compact and round growth habit. It naturally forms a highly branched ball, which reaches a height of 0.60 m and a width of 0.50 m after 2 to 3 years of establishment. Its leaves are very small, less than a centimetre long, rounded and leathery, with crenate edges, very dark green and slightly glossy. The crenata species is dioecious, meaning there are male and female plants. 'Annys5' is a male variety that will not bear fruit. It produces small, insignificant, but nectar-rich male flowers in May-June, with a matte white colour. However, this male cultivar is a suitable pollinator for female Japanese holly plants.

Extremely hardy (to -22°C), Ilex crenata Luxus Hedge also withstands drought quite well once established, but it dislikes limestone. It prefers an acidic to neutral, well-drained soil without stagnant moisture. It thrives in both shade and full sun, but not too hot. It is easy to maintain and requires less pruning than other Ilex crenata varieties due to its naturally rounded and compact growth habit. Pruning in May-June and September is sufficient. It is disease-resistant and grows healthily, making it a good alternative to boxwood. It is a male plant, which means it will not produce berries, thus reducing the risk of ingestion by children. Note that the berries are toxic to humans but not to birds. Luxus Hedge is ideal for forming a low hedge, whether trimmed or untrimmed, and its vegetative characteristics are perfect for shaping, especially in a ball shape, in topiary art. When grown in pots or containers, it enhances a balcony, terrace, or patio with its year-round green foliage and attractive form.