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Landscape AlterNATIVES: American Holly

Landscape AlterNATIVEs: A Guide to Native Landscape Plants: AMERICAN HOLLY (Ilex opaca) Feature Story

by Steven Yergeau, Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent - Ocean & Atlantic Counties N ative plants are a good way to incorporate sustainable vegetation into yards for clients who are environmentally minded. Native plants are adapted to local climate and soil conditions, requiring less watering, fertilizers, and pesticides than non-native vegetation. For landscapers who have property owners looking for native alternatives to non-native vegetation, this column will provide one option per issue. American holly (Ilex opaca) is a large, evergreen tree that can grow to 25-60 feet tall with a spread of up to 40 feet at maturity (Photo 1). It is well-known for its shiny, green spine-tipped leaves and its red berries on female plants (Photo 2). These items are often associated with winter and cuttings are used in many holiday decorations. The berries make American holly a good tree for wildlife, as many songbirds and

Photo 2: The distinctive leaves and red berries of American holly (Photo Credit: Steve Yergeau).

mammals (squirrels and chipmunks) eat them. Note that the berries are poisonous to people.

American holly can tolerate a range of soil conditions and does best in well-drained, sandy and loamy soils. It does not do well in soils with a high amount of clay. American holly also prefers acidic soils with a pH < 6.8.

American holly grows well in areas with direct sun but does tolerate some shade. It makes a good ornamental/decorative plant, shade tree, and hedge. American holly is a good choice to replace many non-native evergreens, such as Norway spruce (Picea abies) and blue spruce (Picea pungens).

As American holly has separate male and female plants, it is important to plant both male and female trees if berry production is wanted. American holly is a popular landscaping plant that provides beautiful foliage throughout the year. One management consideration is that American holly is very slow growing. Also, be aware of the possible danger posed by the spiny leaves in areas of the yard where a lot of pet or human activity is planned.

You can find nurseries in New Jersey that sell native plants by visiting the Jersey-Friendly Yards website at http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friendly-plants/ where-to-buy-native-plants/.

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