American Holly

Ilex opaca

American Holly, scientifically known as Ilex opaca, is a beautiful evergreen tree that is highly valued for its glossy green leaves and vibrant red berries. Here's some information about American Holly:

1. Appearance: American Holly is known for its dense, pyramidal shape and its glossy, dark green leaves. The leaves are typically spiny and have a wavy or serrated edge. The tree can grow up to 50 feet (15 meters) tall, with a spread of about 25 feet (7.6 meters).

2. Berries: Female American Holly trees produce small, bright red berries that ripen in the fall and persist through the winter. These berries are a valuable food source for birds and can add a festive touch to the winter landscape.

3. Pollination: American Holly is a dioecious plant, which means it has separate male and female trees. Female trees produce the berries, while male trees produce small, inconspicuous flowers that are necessary for pollination. To ensure berry production, it's important to have a compatible male holly tree nearby, such as 'Jersey Knight' or 'Jersey Princess'.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low Maintenance.  Water regularly.   Well-drained soils essential.   Potential issues include mites, scale, leaf spot, rot, and mildew.  Susceptible to leaf scorch or drop if not protected from afternoon sun in hotter climates.

LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Privacy Screen, Hedges, Foundation Plantings, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS:  Azalea, Hydrangea, Peony

IMAGE: Gelmaraghy, C2-2-Ilex opaca (American Holly), CC BY-SA 3.0