American Holly (Female) (Ilex opaca)

American Holly (Ilex opaca) has the classic holly look – leathery evergreen pointy leaves and bright red berries in the fall – great for holiday decorating. Tolerant of a range of soil (dry to moist, well-drained sandy to medium loam), it is also tolerant of salt spray. In full sun to part shade it will grow 40 to 60 feet tall and 10 to 20 feet wide. It is host plant for Henry’s Elfin butterfly, provides nectar for butterflies and other insects, the fruits are eaten by songbirds, turkeys, squirrels, and other small mammals. It also provides good winter cover.

Evergreen; Attracts: 🐛 🐝 🐦
Light: full sun to part shade
Soil: dry, medium, or wet; well-drained
Mature Height: 40’ - 60’