Ilex opaca (American Holly)
Ilex opaca (American Holly) is an evergreen tree native to the eastern and southeastern regions of North America. It is a member of the family Aquifoliaceae and is well-known for its glossy, dark green leaves and bright red berries. Here's some information about Ilex opaca:
Appearance: American Holly is a medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 30 to 60 feet (9 to 18 meters), although some specimens can reach up to 100 feet (30 meters) tall. It has a pyramidal or conical shape with dense, branching foliage. The leaves are leathery, oval to elliptical in shape, and have a smooth or slightly spiny margin. They are dark green and retain their color throughout the year.
Flowers and Fruits: American Holly is dioecious, meaning individual trees are either male or female. The small, white flowers appear in late spring or early summer and are usually inconspicuous. Female trees produce clusters of bright red berries, which ripen in the fall and persist through winter. The berries are a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.
Growing conditions: American Holly thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It is generally hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, though specific cultivars may have differing tolerances. American Holly is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering during dry periods will benefit its growth.
Maintenance: American Holly is a low-maintenance tree. It requires minimal pruning, usually limited to removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Berries are produced on female trees, so if you desire fruit, make sure to have both male and female trees in proximity for cross-pollination.
Uses: American Holly is widely planted as an ornamental tree in gardens, parks, and landscapes. It is cherished for its evergreen foliage, which provides year-round beauty. The bright red berries add festive color during the winter months and attract birds to the garden. American Holly is also commonly used in holiday decorations, particularly for making wreaths and garlands.
Cultivars: Numerous cultivars of Ilex opaca have been developed, offering variations in leaf shape, size, variegation, and berry production. Some popular cultivars include 'Satyr Hill' with yellow-variegated leaves, 'Maryland Dwarf' with a compact growth habit, and 'East Palatka' with abundant fruiting.
It's important to note that while American Holly is a valuable tree, it can be slow-growing and may take several years to reach its full potential. It is also dioecious, so to ensure berry production, both male and female trees need to be present.
Botanical Name : Ilex opaca
Common Name : American Holly
Height : 40- 50 ft
Spread : 10- 20 ft
Germination Info : Seed requires up to one year warm stratification followed by 90-120 days cold stratification
Hardiness zone : 5-9
Average seed per ounce : Approx. 1625