December Plant of the Month

Possumhaw Holly

 

This holly looses all its leaves in the winter allowing the berries to really shine.  The native variety has orange berries.  Some cultivars such as “Warren’s Red” have bright red berries.  Bird often feed on the berries in late winter.

Family:  Aquifoliaceae

Genus:  Ilex

Species:  decidua

Category:  Small tree

 

Height:  10-20 ft.   Spacing:  10-15 ft.

Hardiness:   USDA Zone 5a: to -20 °F

 

Sun Exposure:  Sun to Partial Shade

 

Danger:  Parts of plant are poisonous if ingested

 

Bloom Color:  White/Near White

 

Bloom Time:  Mid Summer

 

Foliage:  Deciduous

 

Other details:  Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater.  Provides winter interest.  Needs male pollinator for good berry production. 

 

Soil pH requirements:  Prefers acidic soil

 

Propagation Methods:  From softwood cuttings

 

Seed Collecting:  Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds