As part of the University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension System Master Gardener Program, interns must complete the Tree, Vine and Shrub Identification Project. The project entails the creation of an ID notebook consisting of trees, vines and shrubs that are common to Connecticut. The purpose of the project is to learn about different plant characteristics, structures, growing conditions, and problems of the most commonly grown garden ornamental plants, as well as the principle invasive plants which pose a major problem in our state.

Categories

FAMILY: Aquifoliaceae

Ilex opaca (American Holly)


General Information

American Holly has been a popular landscape plant for centuries. Native Americans prized preserved holly berries for use as buttons and were used for bartering among different groups and tribes. In the 1600s, the berries reminded the pilgrims of their English holly, an ancient symbol of Christmas across England and Europe. The wood is close-grained and moderately heavy but not particularly strong. It has been used for specialty items such as small furniture, wood engravings and scientific instruments. When dyed black, it has been used as a substitute for ebony in making piano keys.

American Holly grows from Massachusetts to Florida, west to Missouri and Texas. It has become adapted to maritime forest conditions as well as the dry, scrub conditions of mid-peninsular Florida.

Plant Habit and Form

American Holly has dense branches that grow nearly horizontal in a spreading crown that gives it a pyramidal form. It has alternate, leathery, 2 to 4 inch evergreen leaves, 1 to 2 inches wide, with sharp pointed tips. The bark is thin and grayish brown. American Holly can grow up to 50 feet tall, occasionally taller under optimal growing conditions.


Growing Requirements

American Holly is hardy in zones 5 to 9. It grows best on well-drained, sandy soils but will tolerate less well-drained soils. It does well in full sun but has good partial shade tolerance. It’s ideal for naturalizing on moist, slightly acidic soils.

Flowering and Fruiting

American Holly is dioecious and has small (about 1/3 inch in diameter), greenish white flowers that bloom from April to June. Fleshy red globular fruit matures September to October but may be retained on the plant until spring. The fruit provides winter interest and serves as an excellent food source for wildlife.

Pests and Diseases

American Holly can be bothered by the holly leaf miner, various types of scale, berry midge, white fly and spider mite among other pests.

ID Tips

Alternate, elliptical, spiny, 2 to 4 inch evergreen leaves with pointed tips. Fleshy, berry-like, bright red fruits about .3 inch in diameter. Grows to 50 feet tall.