Scientific Name: Ilex Opaca

Family: Aquifoliaceae

Common name: American Holly

Description: American Holly is an evergreen tree. This tree can grow between 15 and 80 feet tall. They produce small, inconspicuous white flowers. Female hollies produce beautiful red berry clusters during the winter season.

Range and Habitat: American Hollies are native to the South-eastern United States. This tree prefers full sun to part shade. Zones 5-9

In Porcher’s time… The leaves of the American Holly were esteemed as a diaphoretic in the form of infusion. The berries were considered a purgative, diuretic and emetic. American Holly roots chewed, were used for colds and coughs.