Evergreen tree with a narrow, pyramidal crown and dark green leaves. Female plants produce red berries which ripen in October and persist throughout the winter. Birds are attracted to the fruit. Winter birds, especially mockingbirds, eat berries.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
American Holly
Ilex opaca
Plant Type: Trees
Native Environment: Forest
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost), Winter (Nov - Mar)
Main Color: Green
Fall Color: Green
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade

Soil
Moisture
Moderate

Nature Attracting

Wildlife Benefit
Cover, Food/Birds

Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
15 to
30
feet
Spread:
10 to
20
feet
Size
Height: 15 to
30
feet
Spread: 10 to
20
feet
Size
Height: 15 to
30
feet
Spread: 10 to
20
feet
Typical Landscape Use
Plant as a specimen or in groups. Birds use the plants for cover and nesting and eat the fruit. Foliage and red berries provide excellent winter color. Berried branches can be used in winter wreaths.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Plant in moist, loose, well-drained soil. Does not tolerate poor drainage or dry, windy sites. Plants are male or female. Place one male for every three females within 200' of each other to insure pollination and fruit set.
Special Features
Evergreen
Special Usage
Fresh Cut Flower
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.