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American Holly

Ilex opaca


Hardiness Zones: 5 - 9   View Map
  • Features leathery leaves that are 2–4" long, maintain their green color year-round, and are sharply tipped on the margins
  • Yields red, berry-like fruit popular with a variety of birds (but somewhat toxic for humans)
  • Produces inconspicuous greenish or cream flowers with a notably pleasant aroma
  • Grows in a pyramidal shape
  • Can be pruned as an attractive hedge
  • Needs shelter from the drying effects of the wind in the northern part of its planting range
  • Should be planted in multiples of 4 or more to allow for cross-pollination to produce the red berries

Tree Details

Scientific Name

Ilex opaca

Shipping Height

1'– 2'

Mature Height

15' – 30'

Mature Spread

10' – 20'

Growth Speed

Slow

Shape

Pyramidal

Highlights

Holly sprigs are widely known as the everlasting symbol of Christmas cheer. But holly as a tree offers much more. It lends unique beauty to the landscape all year long, provides cover and food for birds, and has been developed into more than 1,000 cultivars by enthusiastic holly buffs.

 

American holly has captivated plant lovers since the days of the Pilgrims. It is such an appealing tree that Delaware adopted it as the state’s official tree.

Sun Preference

Partial Sun/Shade, Full Sun

Soil Preference

Acidic, Well Drained, Moist

Wildlife Value

The berries are an excellent food source for wildlife including cedar waxwings, mockingbirds, robins, squirrels, and other small mammals.

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