American Holly

Ilex Opaca

Size: 3 Gallon Availability

Tree
Max size: 60’ tall x 25’ wide
Average size: 40′ tall x 15′ wide

Usually Moist, Moist to Dry, Very Dry
Loam, Shade
Part Shade, Shade
No Salt Tolerance

This evergreen tree blooms in spring with white flowers. The red fruits ripen in the fall and are toxic. Many different birds love the fruits and the flowers are pollinated by bees. It is a larval host plant for Henry’s elfin butterfly. It is hurricane-wind resistant. This tree species is dioecious, so a male and female will be needed to produce berries.

The wood is sometimes dyed and used as a substitute for ebony. The berries can be used to make dye. It is also a popular Christmas/holiday tree alternative. It has various medicinal uses, including, but not limited to: infusion of leaves for sores, decoction of the bark used as a wash for sore eyes, and berries used for colic.