Ilex pedunculosa Female

longstalk holly

Longstalk holly (Ilex pedunculosa) is a deciduous shrub valued for its glossy dark green foliage and bright red berries carried on unusually long slender stalks that hang beneath the branches in fall and winter. The leaves are smooth-edged or lightly toothed rather than strongly spined, giving it a softer appearance than many hollies. Its graceful berry display and lighter texture make it distinct among hollies.

Type: Deciduous shrub
Mature Size: Width: 8–10 ft · Height: 10–15 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–7b

Form: Upright, rounded

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil

Water: Medium; prefers regular moisture during establishment

Wildlife: Berries attract birds

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for woodland edges, mixed shrub borders, and specimen planting where pendulous berry display adds winter interest. Its deciduous habit allows berries to stand out strongly after leaf drop.

Care:
Plant in well-drained acidic soil and avoid prolonged drought during establishment. Prune lightly in late winter if shaping is needed. A male plant nearby is required for reliable berry production on female plants.

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

10-15'

Width

8-10'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Fruit color

Red

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Mounded, Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No