treeN. America Native

Weeping Yaupon Holly

Ilex vomitoria 'Pendula'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Very long-lived evergreen tree

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic, can cause vomiting if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex vomitoria, or Yaupon Holly, is a tough, adaptable broadleaf evergreen native to the southeastern US, known for its small leaves and tolerance of diverse conditions. 'Pendula' is a distinct weeping form that grows into an irregular, picturesque small tree. Its cascading branches and production of abundant red berries make it a striking year-round specimen.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The Weeping Yaupon Holly is a premier specimen plant, valued for its graceful, cascading habit that creates a living sculpture in the garden. Its evergreen foliage and profusion of bright red winter berries provide outstanding year-round interest.

Its narrow footprint and vertical form make it suitable for smaller gardens, courtyards, and as an accent near patios or entryways. It is incredibly tough, tolerating drought, heat, and a wide range of soils.

The berries are a valuable food source for birds like cedar waxwings and mockingbirds through the winter. The dense, weeping branches provide excellent cover and potential nesting sites for birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.
Yaupon is highly adaptable to soil type and pH.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the tree in the hole, with the root flare at or slightly above grade.
Stake the main leader to encourage vertical growth if desired.
Backfill, water thoroughly, and mulch around the base.

Pro Tip

Stake a young plant to the desired height; from that point, the branches will begin to weep downwards.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Allow its unique, irregular form to develop naturally.
Water deeply during establishment, then only in severe drought.
Prune selectively to remove any awkward or crossing branches.
Appreciate the winter display of red berries against the dark foliage.

Don't

Don't try to shear it into a formal shape.
Avoid planting in soggy, poorly drained locations.
Don't overwater once the tree is established.
Don't plant too close to walkways where the weeping branches may obstruct passage.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Prune
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Graceful weeping specimen treeArchitectural accent for courtyardsUnique vertical element in a mixed border

Companion Plants

Cercis canadensis Bouteloua gracilis Echinacea purpurea Liriope muscari Mahonia eurybracteata 'Soft Caress'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Weeping Yaupon Holly questions

What zones can Weeping Yaupon Holly grow in?

Weeping Yaupon Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Weeping Yaupon Holly deer resistant?

Yes — Weeping Yaupon Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Weeping Yaupon Holly bloom?

Weeping Yaupon Holly typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Weeping Yaupon Holly need full sun?

Weeping Yaupon Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Weeping Yaupon Holly drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Weeping Yaupon Holly handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.