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American Holly

Ilex Opaca

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Overview

American Holly (Ilex opaca) is an evergreen with a dense pyramidal shape, typically reaching 15-30 feet in height with a spread of 10-20 feet. Its spiny dark green leaves and bright red berries are iconic, thriving in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Hardy in zones 5-9, it requires minimal pruning and offers excellent privacy or as a focal specimen. Provides habitat for birds and is relatively slow-growing.

Sun Full, HalfWater Extra in Summer, MediumZones 5–9Climate Temperate
American Holly (Ilex Opaca) — American Holly (Ilex opaca) is an evergreen with a dense pyramidal shape

Culture

Sun
Full, Half
Water
Extra in Summer, Medium
USDA zones
5–9

Shape & size

Mature height
15–30 Ft.
Mature width
10–20 Ft.

Classification

Family
Aquifoliaceae
Climate
Temperate

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Photos (101)

American Holly (Ilex Opaca) — Its ability to be pruned into a hedge or topiary form adds to its versatility in garden design; american Holly (Ilex, image 97
American Holly (Ilex Opaca) — or grouped in a naturalistic setting; when incorporating Ilex opaca into a landscape design, image 96
American Holly (Ilex Opaca) — broadleaf evergreen / tree with white blooms; it prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and berry, image 99
American Holly (Ilex Opaca) — broadleaf evergreen / tree for full or half; its ability to be pruned into a hedge or topiary form adds to its, image 100
American Holly (Ilex Opaca) — American Holly (Ilex opaca) is an evergreen with a dense pyramidal shape; hardy in zones 5-9, it requires minimal, image 101

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