- American holly
Botanical name: ilex opaca
Beginner friendly?: yes
Average size at maturity: can reach up to 60-70 ft in height and 20 ft in width
Hardy zone: zones 8-9
Foliage color: green
Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year
Pruning instructions: prune to maintain desired shape and size during the winter months
Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings in the fall and winter
Landscape use: privacy plant, hedge, wind protection, ornamental evergreen
Light needs: at least 6 hours of sun per day
Special features: bright red berries that attract birds
Watering instructions: water when the top 2 inches of soil have dried
Fertilizing instructions : use a liquid tree and shrub plant food once a month throughout the spring and summer
Best time to plant: spring, fall
Best type of soil: loam or clay
Companion plants: viburnums, boxwood, hydrangeas
Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets when ingested
Invasive species: not invasive
