American Holly Ilex opaca

  • Photo © Pauline Singleton, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC)
  • Photo © Frode Jacobson, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC)
  • Photo © brownheadednuthatch, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC)
  • Photo © Craig Simmons, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC)
  • Photo © Claudia Stratmann, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC)

About This Plant

American Holly is a popular evergreen that has been produced in multiple cultivars. In the wild, it is often found growing in the understory of moist woodlands in a variety of soil conditions. It does best in full to partial sun. To produce the bright red or orange berries American Holly is known for, both a male and female plant must be present. Because it grows so tall, it is functions well as a hedge or privacy screen. American Holly is popular with songbirds who eat its berries.

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