American Holly (Ilex Opaca) is a perennial tree in the Aquifoliaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Ilex opaca, commonly known as American holly, is an upright, pyramidal, evergreen tree native to the eastern and central United States.

American Holly

American Holly

Ilex Opaca

Ilex opaca, commonly known as American holly, is an upright, pyramidal, evergreen tree native to the eastern and central United States.

Quick Facts

Type
tree
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
5-9

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy, clay
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, hedge, screen, winter interest

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for American Holly

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

American Holly
American Holly detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Aquifoliaceae
Genus:Ilex