10 Seeds American Holly Ilex opaca Evergreen Ornamental Tree

American Holly is a classic evergreen tree valued for its glossy, spiny foliage and bright red berries that add winter interest to the landscape. It grows into a dense, pyramidal tree over time and works well as a specimen, privacy screen, or woodland border planting.

The foliage provides year-round greenery, while the red berries are a traditional seasonal accent on female trees. This species is adaptable to a range of soils and is a long-lived, low-maintenance choice for temperate gardens. Seeds require cold stratification for reliable germination.
Species: Ilex opaca
Type: Evergreen tree
Plant_Habit: Upright, pyramidal
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic
Days_to_Harvest: Not applicable
Zones: 5-9
Germination: Cold stratify 60-90 days; sow 1/4 inch deep
Sowing: Indoors or outdoors after stratification
Spacing: 15-20 feet
Notes: Berries produced on female plants when a male pollinator is nearby