Chesapeake Japanese Holly

Chesapeake Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata 'Chesapeake')

Chesapeake Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata 'Chesapeake') is a dense, compact evergreen shrub prized for its glossy dark green foliage and tight, uniform growth habit. This cultivar is ideal for formal hedges, foundation plantings, and low-maintenance landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Chesapeake' displays small, oval, deep green leaves with a smooth texture, creating a neat and tidy appearance. The shrub produces small white flowers in spring, followed by black berries that add subtle winter interest.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to various soil types
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture, especially during establishment
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8

Ideal Uses

• Formal Hedges: Excellent for creating neat, dense screens
• Foundation Plantings: Provides year-round structure near buildings
• Mixed Borders: Adds fine texture and evergreen interest
• Topiary: Suitable for shaping and sculpting
• Container Gardens: Works well in pots and small spaces

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture during dry periods
• Pruning: Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage dense growth
• Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Provide shelter from harsh winter winds

Why Choose Chesapeake Japanese Holly?

• Dense, Compact Growth: Ideal for formal hedges and screens
• Glossy Dark Green Foliage: Provides year-round visual interest
• Versatile Use: Suitable for hedging, topiary, borders, and containers
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care and pruning
• Winter Interest: Produces small black berries that add seasonal texture

Ilex crenata 'Chesapeake' is a dependable evergreen shrub that enhances landscapes with its tidy form and rich foliage.