Ilex opaca
American Holly
Tree Characteristics
Leaves:
Evergreen
Height:
12 - 15m
Width:
5 - 10m
Growth Rate:
Slow
Tree Tolerances
Plant Hardiness Zone:
5, 6
Shade Tolerance:
Full Sun Part Shade
pH Tolerance:
Tolerant of acid to slightly alkaline soil (pH 5.0 to 7.5)
Drought Tolerance:
Moderate
Flooding Tolerance:
Moderate
Salt Spray Tolerance:
Tolerant
Soil Salt Tolerance:
Unknown
Planting site and Native Range
Planting Site:
Parks, Residential
Native to Ontario:
No
Native to North America:
Yes
Insects and Diseases
This species typically has quite a few pests and diseases that influence its growth and survival. These include but are not limited to scale, leaf spot and rot, tar spot and holly leaf miner. Although this tree does have many pests and diseases, in low amounts as a specimen tree in parks or residental areas (i.e. backyards or even front yards) this tree does add value.
Management Notes
Can become chlorotic in high pH soils