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American Holly
Ilex opaca
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| This pyramid-shaped evergreen tree is best known
for the wreaths and boughs that are made from its branches around Christmas time. |
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Leaves
The leaves are alternate, simple and
lanceolate or elliptic in shape. Leaves are 2-4 inches long and 1-1 ½ inches wide. They
are medium to dark, green in color and, shiny or flat. The leaf margins are usually spiny
and will be flat or wavy.
Flowers
The flowers are small and are green or white in color. The flowers are fragrant and are
found in clusters in the leaf axils.
Fruit
Berries are round and bright red,
orange or yellow, and are ½ inch in diameter.
Trunk
The bark is light gray and may be
covered by wart-like growths. Because the bark is very thin, it is easily damaged.
Propagation
Information not available.
Landscape usage
The American Holly can be used as a specimen tree but may also be used as a hedge. It has
high drought and salt spray tolerance but grows best in well-drained but moist soils. With
its bright berries, this tree is an excellent food source for wildlife.
Interesting Facts
The preserved berries of this tree were used by American Indians as
decorative buttons. Historically, the wood was used to make canes. When stained black, it
was substituted for ebony in inlay work. |
