Ilex crenata LUXUS™ ('Anny's 5’)

– Non-fruiting cultivar – does not attract birds via berries

– Pollinator-friendly in spring (small flowers may attract bees)

– Deer resistant – foliage is unpalatable to deer

– Spring: New growth emerges; subtle flowering

– Summer: Dense, glossy foliage remains vibrant

– Fall: No color change – evergreen presence

– Winter: Evergreen leaves persist; provides structural interest in the landscape

– Low hedging – formal borders – topiary – foundation planting – evergreen structure in gardens – boxwood substitute – containers in courtyards or entryways

– Small, dark green, glossy, evergreen leaves

– Resemble boxwood but with better disease resistance

– Oval, finely serrated margins, dense foliage habit

– Maintains color and structure year-round

– Tiny white flowers appear in late spring

– Not showy; often hidden in foliage

– Typically go unnoticed, with minimal visual impact

– Site selection: Best planted in full sun to partial shade with protection from harsh winter winds in cold climates

– Soil requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.5); avoid alkaline or poorly drained soils

– Planting depth: Set the root ball at or slightly above soil level; do not bury the crown

– Spacing: Allow 2–4 feet apart depending on mature size and usage (hedging vs. specimen)

– Mulch: Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and reduce weeds

– Best planting time: Spring or early fall for optimal root establishment

– When: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts

– How: Can be shaped or sheared for formality (hedges or topiary) or left to grow naturally

– Tolerates heavy pruning and shearing well

– Requires regular watering during establishment (first season)

– Once established, is moderately drought tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture

– Avoid soggy or waterlogged conditions

– Grows best in full sun to partial shade

– In cooler regions, full sun promotes denser growth; in hotter areas, light afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch

– Not harvested; strictly ornamental

– No culinary, medicinal, or craft uses

– Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring

– Acid-loving plant fertilizers (like those for azaleas) work well

– Avoid over-fertilizing; too much nitrogen can reduce density

– Self-pollinating, but produces no fruit

– One of the key traits of LUXUS™ ('Anny’s 5') is no berry production, making it very clean and low-maintenance

– Flowers are inconspicuous, appearing in spring

– Boxwood (Buxus spp.) – similar form, complementary foliage

– Hydrangea paniculata – contrast in texture and seasonal blooms

– Azalea and Rhododendron – similar pH and moisture needs

– Heuchera – foliage contrast beneath shrubs

– Carex or Liriope – ornamental grasses that tolerate shade and acidic soil