Longstalk Holly Ilex pedunculosa

Longstalk Holly, or Ilex pedunculosa, is a species of Holly native to Asia where it is often found in the mountains of Japan and the woodlands, thickets, and margins of woods on mountains in China. Longstalk Holly is a very hardy evergreen with red berries, small, pleasantly scented flowers, and showy foliage that is spineless and much like mountain laurel. The fruits are relished by birds and hang down on long stalks.  The distinctive berry stalk is known as a peduncle, hence the species name. It can be pruned as a dense broad shrub or left to grow as a small tree. It is one of the most cold-hardy hollies and does well in the northern and western mountains of North Carolina. The plant is dioecious (meaning individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). It is pollinated by bees. For females to bear fruit, a male pollinator is needed within 200 feet; rule of thumb is to provide one male for every three females to insure that good pollination will take place.

Longstalk Holly was voted Holly of the Year for 2013 by the Holly Society of America.

This holly prefers moist soil but is tolerant of most soils except poorly-drained ones and can be grown in full to partial sun. It is drought tolerant once established. Prune in the late winter to control its size if needed. The plant does not tolerate transplanting, especially as the plant get older, so it is best to place the plant in its permanent position with some winter protection for the first year or two. Plants are very tolerant of pruning and can be cut right back into old wood if required The fruit and evergreen leaves make for winter interest in the landscape. The spiny leaves make this a good choice for a barrier or privacy screen or use as an impenetrable hedge. It can also be planted as a specimen, used in small groups, or planted along a foundation. Mature plants do not tolerate root disturbance, so it is best to site the plant in its permanent position, preferably one that provides winter protection for the first year or two.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No serious insect or disease problems. 

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common diseases and insect pests.

More information on Ilex.