American Holly (Ilex opaca) – Classic Evergreen Tree with Festive Red Berries

Bring timeless beauty and year-round interest to your landscape with American Holly (Ilex opaca), a classic evergreen tree known for its glossy green foliage and bright red berries. This majestic tree provides seasonal charm, attracting birds while offering a natural privacy screen or ornamental accent in gardens and landscapes.

Key Features:

• Year-Round Evergreen Beauty – Retains its deep green, spiny leaves through all seasons.
• Festive Red Berries – Female trees produce vibrant red berries in fall and winter, adding seasonal interest.
• Wildlife Attraction – A favorite for birds and pollinators, providing food and shelter.
• Natural Privacy Screen – Grows into a dense, pyramidal shape, making it ideal for hedging.
• Cold & Drought Tolerant – Hardy and adaptable to various climates and soil types.

Product Details:

• Botanical Name: Ilex opaca
• Plant Type: Evergreen Tree
• Mature Height: 30–50 feet
• Mature Width: 15–30 feet
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Planting Instructions:

• Seed Preparation: Cold stratify seeds for 60–90 days to improve germination.
• Sowing: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil; space young trees 15–25 feet apart.
• Germination: Keep soil consistently moist; germination may take 6–12 months.
• Transplanting: Once seedlings establish strong roots, move them to a permanent location.

Care & Maintenance:

• Watering: Water regularly during the first year; once established, it is drought-tolerant.
• Pruning: Prune selectively to shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
• Fertilizing: Apply an acidic, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
• General Care: Mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

With its iconic holiday berries, dense evergreen foliage, and wildlife-friendly nature, American Holly is the perfect addition to traditional, wildlife, or festive landscapes.