American holly (Ilex opaca)

American holly

Ilex opaca, commonly known as american holly, is a medium-sized evergreen tree, commonly found in southeastern areas of North America as an understory tree in humid forests. Its bright red fruits are poisonous to humans but are a very important source of food for numerous species of birds.

Scientific classification

Species

American holly (Ilex opaca)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

4.5 m to 30 m

Plant Height

3 m to 6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Red, Burgundy, Orange

Fruit Color

White, Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of American holly

Attributes of American holly

Growth Rate

With a slow growth rate, american holly exhibits gradual advancement in spring and summer. The slow growth results in denser branching and leaf development. During its growing season, growth spurts are seldom seen, resulting in a compact form that aids american holly in its native forest understorey habitats.

Distribution of American holly

Distribution Map

The american holly plant originated in Southeastern United States maritime forests but has spread to gardens in New Jersey, Connecticut, and into Florida and Texas, where it is widely cultivated as a shrub or tree.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Moist bottomlands, Woods, Hedges, Fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

American holly (Ilex opaca) is a popular ornamental evergreen tree that has plenty of garden appeal with its year-round leaves and bright red berries. American holly is dense enough to grow as a hedge and interesting enough to grow as a specimen plant. It can also be used to protect less vigorous plants from wind. This tree is an excellent choice for cottage and informal gardens, contrasting well with viburnums, boxwoods, and hydrangeas.

Symbolism

Protection, Anti-Lightning, Luck, inviting blessings

Interesting Facts

American holly is heavily associated with the Christmas holiday in North America. Homes are decorated with american holly to welcome guests and merry-making, and american holly appears in many holiday poems and songs. These traditions began in England in the 19th century and carried over into the United States.

Name Story

Christmas holly: When the pilgrims first came to America, the native Ilex opaca that is featured with its spiny, evergreen leaves and red berries reminded them of their native English Holly. They began using this plant in holiday decorations and gave it the nickname Christmas holly.

American holly: Although the shape of the tree looks like a solid pyramid, its dense red fruits make it look cute. As compared with Ilex aquifolium, its leaves are brighter and bigger. As the plant is originated from the United States, it is called American holly.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Fruits of american holly are toxic when ingested by humans, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. Cats and dogs experience similar symptoms plus lethargy or drooling from eating any part, particularly the berries and essential oil. Severe reactions are rare due to the plant's deterrent spiky leaves. Children are at risk of accidental ingestion. Moderately toxic.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify American holly

Stiff, holly-like leaves with long, sharp spines

Greenish-white flowers in male clusters and solitary females

Vibrant red-orange spherical fruit persisting from fall to winter

Thick, leathery leaves with oblong shape and apical spine

Greenish-gray stem with irregular branching and small raised lenticels

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for American holly

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from moderate moisture habitats, american holly thrives in well-draining soil and requires watering every 1-2 weeks, allowing for slight drying. As an evergreen, american holly is effective at conserving water in cooler months, maintaining foliage year-round and adapting to its woodland environment.

Fertilize: To enhance american holly's growth and berry yield, apply balanced fertilizers in early spring and high-nitrogen ones in late spring, every 2-3 months. Monitor for yellowing leaves to adjust nitrogen levels and reduce application frequency in dormancy. Proper measurement and thorough watering are crucial.

Pruning: American holly requires pruning in early to late winter to maintain health and shape. Remove dead branches, promote dense growth, and retain berry-producing branches. Regular pruning improves ventilation and reduces disease risk. Always sanitize tools to prevent infection for optimal plant vitality.

Propagation: American holly propagation is effectively done through cutting and layering in spring for best growth. It has moderate difficulty, with successful signs being root and leaf development. Keeping soil moisture and warmth optimal is crucial during propagation.

Repotting: Repot american holly every 2-3 years in spring, using a container 2 inches larger in diameter. Provide adequate water and partial shade post-repotting. Use a well-draining soil mix, as american holly prefers moist but not waterlogged conditions for optimal growth.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of American holly

Attributes of American holly

Distribution of American holly

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify American holly

Care Guide for American holly

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases