Ilex x meserveae 'Mondo' (Little Rascal)
Little Rascal Holly
Ilex × meserveae ‘Mondo’ (Little Rascal®) is a compact evergreen holly valued for its dense rounded habit, glossy dark green foliage, and dramatic purple-black winter coloration. The small leaves are lightly spined and emerge bright green before deepening, then often turn very dark in cold weather, giving strong seasonal contrast even without berries.
Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 3–4 ft · Height: 3–4 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–7b
Form: Compact, rounded
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
Water: Medium; prefers regular moisture during establishment
Wildlife: Provides shelter for birds
Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for low hedges, foundation plantings, borders, and mixed evergreen beds where compact form and winter foliage color are desired. Its naturally dense habit requires little shaping.
Care:
Plant in well-drained acidic soil and protect from drying winter winds in exposed sites. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring if shaping is needed. Best foliage color develops in brighter light.
- Plant type
- Broadleaf Evergreen, Evergreen Shrub
- Height
- 3-4'
- Width
- 3-4'
- Hardiness zones
- 5–7
- Sunlight
- Full Sun, Partial Shade
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Flower color
- White
- Leaf color
- Green
- Fall color
- Green
- Attracts
- Birds
- Landscape use
- Accent Plant, Foundation Plant, Hedge, Mass Planting
- Shape
- Compact, Rounded
- Fruit
- Yes
- Fragrant
- Yes
- Deer resistant
- Yes
- Drought tolerant
- No