About
Ilex pedunculosa, the longstalk holly, is a slow-growing, upright, evergreen shrub or small tree with smooth, slightly wavy-edged, spineless, dark-green, leathery leaves, bronze-tinted when young. Small, white female flowers in summer are followed by bright-red, long-stalked berries that persist well into winter. An elegant and distinctive holly for a sheltered garden.
About the genus
Ilex, the hollies, are evergreen or deciduous shrubs and trees with often spiny, leathery leaves and small, white flowers � male and female usually on separate plants. Female plants produce the familiar red, yellow or black berries in autumn and winter when pollinated by a male nearby.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitColumnar upright, Bushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toChina Japan Taiwan
ToxicityFruit 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
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade
PruningPruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn or propagate by hardwood cuttings in January with bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, holly leaf miner and young shoots may be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to holly leaf blight, Phytophthora root rot and sometimes honey fungus