Ilex opaca (American Holly)

The classic native holiday holly, American holly pairs genuine drought tolerance with reliable winter fruit display on female trees - a slow-growing, long-lived evergreen specimen tree that also serves as a larval host for several butterfly species.

Species Overview

American holly is a broadleaf evergreen tree native to the eastern United States, often reaching 30 to 50 feet tall. It is prized for its spiny, dark green leaves and bright red berries that persist through winter, making it a holiday favorite. This iconic tree is drought-tolerant and a vital food source for birds and small mammals during colder months.

Application

• Specimen and screening plantings prioritizing year-round evergreen structure
• Wildlife habitat plantings - berries are a vital winter food source for birds
• Understory and woodland-edge restoration, protected from high wind
• Larval host habitat for butterflies

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist, well-drained, acidic soils; protect from high wind exposure
• Drought Tolerance: Low - The Morton Arboretum and other sources describe this species as intolerant of drought and poor drainage, preferring consistently moist, well-drained soil; Florida Native Plant Society notes it can withstand some drought once established, but overall consensus leans moisture-preferring.
• Flood Tolerance: Low - An adaptable species found from upland to moist woodland sites, but not a wetland obligate; not documented as flood tolerant.
• Plant Type: Tree
• Mature Height: 25-50 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None - evergreen
• Bloom Color / Period: White; May-June
• Wetland Indicator Status: NI (No Indicator) - see flags
• Native Range: Massachusetts to Florida, west to Texas and Missouri
• Hydrology: Mesic-Moist
• Root Depth: Deep (24-36 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Moderate
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Upright - pyramidal to columnar
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
• Pollinator Value: Supports butterflies

Planting Guidance

• Dioecious - only female trees produce berries, and only when a male tree is close enough for pollination.