American Holly
(Christmas Holly)
Ilex Opaca
A broadleaf, evergreen native to eastern USA. A less cold hardy, understory tree that is said to grow in sheltered locations in zone 5b. In this region it may grow to be no more than a large shrub. Unique glossy, dark-green leaves with several pointed tips per leaf. Male and female small, white, fragrant flowers are on separate trees. Female flowers develop into attractive, iconic red berries that persist on the tree into winter. A male tree will not produce berries but is needed to pollinate the female. Plant at least 2 trees to improve chance of fruit production though there is no guarantee. Fruits are an important source of food for local wildlife though they are poisonous to humans.
Additional information
| Foliage | Evergreen |
|---|---|
| Locale | Native to North America |
| Height | Small (under 30ft) |
| Width | Narrow |
| Form | Multi Stemmed, Pyramidal |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Longevity | Long (over 100 years) |
| Hardiness Zones * | 5 |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun (over 6 hrs), Partial Sun (4 to 6 hrs) |
| Soil Preferences * | Moist, Slightly Acidic, Well Draining |
| Other Tolerances | Occasional Drought, Road Salt, Urban Pollution |
| Ornamental Interest | Flowers (fragrant), Fruit, Leaves (shape) |
| Wildlife Value | Bees (flowers), Birds (fruits/seeds), Butterflies (flowers), Butterfly Larvae (leaves), Insect Pollinators (flowers), Small Mammals (fruits/seeds) |
| Human Value | Carpentry (wood) |
| Seed Collection | Ordered Online |
| Planting Considerations | Casts Deep Shade, Intolerant of Alkaline Soil, Poisonous Tree Parts, Tricky to Transplant |
