AlterNative

AlterNative

Possumhaw Holly As An Alternative To The Invasive Scarlet Firethorn

By Raleigh Darnell

Invasive: Pyracantha Coccinea, Scarlett Firethorn

Pyracantha coccinea is invasive in parts of the region due to being readily seed dispersed by wildlife that eat the fruit.

Alternative: Ilex Decidua, Possumhaw Holly

Benefits:

This native holly is easily confused with another native cousin, Yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria), but Possumhaw holly is just as desirable and just as hardy. This holly does well in clay, sand and loam. This holly can also handle full sun or partial shade. Possumhaw grows wild and abundant throughout the Southern U.S., including Midwest states like Indiana, Illinois and Missouri.

Design: The mature form of Possumhaw often makes a shrub or small tree. This plant works well as an understory plant, where nearby trees provide some shade. Possumhaw can also be planted in full sun when desired, as an isolated grove or as a border grove to any property.

Leaves are persistently green till the fall, with inconspicuous flowers in the spring. The horizontal branching pattern of this plant showcases the leaves and smooth, light-gray bark. This plant also lacks thorns. As a deciduous plant, Possumhaw is not evergreen. Yet, the leaves make way for holly fruit in the winter.

The female form of Possumhaw holly is a showstopper during the wintertime. Fruits develop in clusters close to the branching stems, maintaining a healthy color and luster. Wild and cultivated varieties of Possumhaw produce fruits in vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. This plant is a stunner in winter gardens. The bold contrast in colors from fruit to bark will liven up any winter landscape.

Illustration by ©Caitlyn Wallace