Traditionally Topiary Balls are grown from
Box Plant (Buxus sempervirens) which gives them a neat and formal appearance. However, this particular topiary ball is
Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly) which has an exceptionally similar appearance despite its 'Holly' name. However, unlike Box, Ilex crenata doesn't suffer from blight or Box Moth problems and is therefore considered an excetionally suitable alternative to Box plant topiary, particularly in the Southern part of the UK where the Box Moth in particular is more prevalent. nn
With its small, rounded, glossy leaves and dense habit, slow growth and ease of maintenance, it has all the same attributes that make box ideal for topiary and is therefore ideal for shaping and trimming. It will also regenerate from old wood where Box will not and unlike Box won't suffer from leaf scorch on pruning. All of this makes Japanese Holly a fantastic species for first time topiary growers and for those looking for a Box look without the potential Box problems.
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These Topiary Balls will look stunning planted into containers, standing proudly at an entrance or doorway, planted en masse or even combined with softer plants, such as grasses and perennials, to add a contrast in texture.
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Visit our Ilex crenata (Japanese Holly) page for more detailed information on this species.nn
Maintaining and caring for your Topiary
To keep a good shape and tight growth, topiary needs all-round and all-over light so it is incompatible with shade, although potted specimens can be rotated. Clipping should be done when the opportunity, inspiration, enthusiasm and weather all combine to make it possible - in late summer, so that there is the longest period of time (until May or June the following year) to enjoy the tightly clipped shapes. Some enthusiasts clip in early summer too but never clip too early in the year - you must make sure there is no possibility of night frosts. Always use very sharp tools and we recommend that plants are watered first before clipping which helps the cut leaves to heal quickly.nnAll our topiary is hardy and suitable to withstand all that our weather can throw at us but given the expense of each piece, it is our recommendation that you take particular care to protect topiary - just simple precautions like gently brushing snow off, using pointed rather than flat topped shapes where long periods of snow are normal, providing ventilated shelter from severe winds and ensuring that specimens are well watered in summer and sheltered from very strong sunshine which can burn as much as winter winds.
