Status:
valid
Authors:
Aiton
Source:
cmp
Year:
1789
Citation Micro:
Hort. Kew. 1: 169 (1789)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000729683
Common Names
- Ilex opaca
- American Holly
- Christmas Holly
Description
Ilex opaca (also called American holly, among many other common names) is a species of holly native to eastern North America. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree growing to 10 m tall, with glossy green leaves and white flowers in spring, followed by red berries in autumn. It is found in moist woods and along streams and rivers.
Uses & Benefits
Ilex opaca, also known as American holly, is a popular ornamental plant used in landscaping. It is also used to make furniture, Christmas decorations, and wreaths. It is known for its bright red berries and glossy green leaves.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Ilex opaca var. laxiflora (Lam.) Nutt.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Ilex opaca has small white flowers, black seeds and small seedlings.
Cultivation and Propagation
Ilex opaca can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants in late spring or early summer and rooted in a well-drained soil mix. The plants should be kept in a bright, sunny location and watered regularly.
Where to Find Ilex opaca
Ilex opaca can be found in the eastern United States and Canada.
Ilex opaca FAQ
What is the scientific name of Ilex opaca?
Ilex opaca
What is the family of Ilex opaca?
Aquifoliaceae
What is the common name of Ilex opaca?
American Holly
Species in the Ilex genus
Species in the Aquifoliaceae family
Ilex mucugensis,
Ilex stenura,
Ilex toroidea,
Ilex guaramacalensis,
Ilex abscondita,
Ilex acutidenticulata,
Ilex affinis,
Ilex altiplana,
Ilex amara,
Ilex amazonensis,
Ilex annamensis,
Ilex anomala,
Ilex antonii,
Ilex apicidens,
Ilex apiensis,
Ilex aquifolium,
Ilex aracamuniana,
Ilex archeri,
Ilex ardisiaefrons,
Ilex arimensis,
Ilex arnhemensis,
Ilex atabapoensis,
Ilex attenuata,
Ilex auricula,
Ilex azuensis,
Ilex baasiana,
Ilex barahonica,
Ilex belizensis,
Ilex berteroi,
Ilex blancheana,
Ilex blanchetii,
Ilex brandegeeana,
Ilex brasiliensis,
Ilex brevipedicellata,
Ilex bullata,
Ilex canariensis,
Ilex casiquiarensis,
Ilex cassine,
Ilex celebensis,
Ilex chevalieri,
Ilex chinensis,
Ilex chiriquensis,
Ilex ciliolata,
Ilex clementis,
Ilex clethriflora,
Ilex cognata,
Ilex colchica,
Ilex condorensis,
Ilex congesta,
Ilex cookii,