| Botanical Name | Ilex opaca ‘Greenleaf’ |
| Description | A native holly with beautiful red berries against dark green foliage. Great plant for screening. Greenleaf grow naturally pyramidal making them wonderful specimen plants. |
| Foilage color | Dark Green |
| Flower Color | NA |
| Height | 12-20' |
| Width | 10-12' |
| Hardiness Zone | 6 |
| Exposure | Sun/Part Sun |
| Butterfly/Pollinator Rating | NA |
Ilex opaca ‘Green Leaf’ is a classic native evergreen holly valued for its glossy green foliage, attractive red berries, and year-round landscape appeal. This durable North American native provides excellent structure in the landscape and is especially useful for screening, specimen planting, wildlife gardens, and naturalized settings. Its dense, spiny foliage provides shelter for birds, while the berries are an important winter food source for many species.
‘Green Leaf’ American Holly is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a long-lived, low-maintenance evergreen with strong native wildlife value. Female plants produce the familiar red berries when a compatible male holly is nearby for pollination.
Growing Instructions
- Light: Full sun to partial shade; best growth and berry production generally occur with several hours of direct sunlight.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained, acidic to slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter.
- Water: Water regularly during establishment. Once established, plants are moderately drought tolerant but perform best with consistent moisture during extended dry periods.
- Maintenance: Requires little pruning. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant or remove unwanted branches.
- Pollination: A male American holly is needed nearby for reliable berry production on female plants.
Landscape Uses
- Evergreen specimen plant
- Privacy screens and informal hedges
- Wildlife and native plant gardens
- Foundation plantings
- Naturalized woodland landscapes
- Excellent for year-round structure and winter interest
Native Plant Benefits
American holly is native to the eastern United States, including North Carolina. It provides valuable habitat and cover for birds and other wildlife. The bright red berries are particularly important as a winter food source, while the dense evergreen foliage offers year-round shelter.
Dimensions
Mature Height: 15–30 feet
Mature Width: 10–20 feet
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Dimensions can vary depending on growing conditions, pruning, and the specific plant form.