Ilex Glabra Gem Box or Inkberry Holly Gem Box

Ilex Glabra Gem Box, also known as Inkberry Holly Gem Box, is a superb evergreen shrub that offers an elegant alternative to traditional boxwood. A dwarf selection of Ilex Glabra, this compact holly variety is cherished for its neat, rounded form and lush, dark green foliage with subtle red-tipped new growth in spring. Its dense habit and small neat glossy leaves make it particularly valuable in gardens where boxwood struggles due to box blight.

This variety of Inkberry Holly has been bred specifically for its compact growth and versatility. Unlike many hollies, Ilex Glabra Gem Box has very small leaves that closely resemble boxwood, giving it the same refined, clipped look. Tiny greenish-white flowers appear in spring and early summer, though they are not the main feature. On female plants, small black berries may follow. Hardy and low-maintenance, this shrub provides year-round structure and colour.

Height and Width of Ilex Glabra Gem Box

Fully grown, Inkberry Holly Gem Box typically reaches around 80–100 cm in both height and spread, forming a naturally rounded and compact mound. It responds well to light pruning, making it easy to maintain the desired shape.

How hardy is Ilex Glabra Gem Box?

Inkberry Gem Box is hardy in the UK climate and tolerates cold winters without damage. It prefers acidic to neutral soils and thrives best in moist, well-drained ground. Unlike boxwood, it is resistant to common problems such as box blight and therefore a reliable long-term choice for structure planting.

Uses in Garden and/or Landscape

Thanks to its compact, evergreen growth, Inkberry Holly is perfect for a variety of uses:

• As a substitute for boxwood in low hedging and edging
• For shaping and topiary in formal gardens
• In mixed borders as a neat evergreen anchor
• Planted in containers for year-round interest on patios and entrances

While both Ilex Glabra Gem Box and Ilex Crenata are popular alternatives to boxwood, they differ in growth and appearance. Ilex Crenata, often called Japanese Holly, has slightly larger, shinier leaves and can be clipped into taller hedges. In contrast, Ilex Glabra Gem Box stays naturally compact and rounded, with very small foliage that mimics the look of boxwood more closely. Both have a dense, mounding habit, making them particularly well suited for low borders, edging, and topiary balls.

Care Tips

Plant Ilex Glabra Gem Box in full sun to partial shade for best results. It prefers acidic soils but can adapt to a range of conditions if kept evenly moist. Pruning is minimal – simply trim lightly once a year to maintain a tidy shape. Mulching in spring will help to conserve soil moisture and keep the root zone healthy. Avoid chalky soils, which may cause leaf yellowing.