About

Ilex aquifolium 'Pendula' is a compact evergreen tree that typically reaches a height of 4 meters. It develops a thick canopy with drooping branches that showcase spiny, glossy dark green leaves. In spring and early summer, this cultivar produces clusters of small white flowers, which can lead to the formation of red berries if a male holly is planted nearby for pollination.

About the genus

Ilex consists of shrubs and trees that can either be deciduous or evergreen. They typically feature leaves with a spiny texture, produce small white flowers (with male and female blooms usually found on different plants), and the female specimens bear prominent berries in the fall.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Loam, Sand, Clay, Chalk

Soil pH

Neutral, Alkaline, Acid

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing, East-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H6

Plant details

Plant type

Shrubs, Trees

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

2.5-4 metres

Spread

2.5-4 metres

Time to full height

10-20 years

Suggested uses

City and courtyard gardens, Architectural, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens

Toxicity

Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade

Pruning

Pruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn or propagate by hardwood cuttings in January with bottom heat

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to scale insects, holly leaf miner and young shoots may be susceptible to aphids

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to holly leaf blight, Phytophthora root rot and sometimes honey fungus