Ilex decidua (Possumhaw Holly)

Possumhaw Holly (Ilex decidua)

Height, Spread:  7-15 ft, 5-12 ft

Water/Soil: Moist, occasionally dry or wet, well-drained, clay, sand, loam, acidic

Light: Full sun-partial shade

Bloom: Spring, inconspicuous green or white flowers

Native Range: Southern USA

Qualities: Wildlife resource, Host plant, Attractive to pollinators, Drought tolerant

Notes: Deciduous holly commonly found in riparian areas in moist woodlands, low elevations, and wetlands. It is a host plant for Henry's Elfin Butterfly (Callophrys henrici) and supports Colletes banksi, a specialized native bee. Other pollinators will also visit the blooms. Fruits are eaten by birds and small mammals. This is a dioecious species meaning you need a separate male and female plant to get fruit. Best planted in shrubby borders or as a privacy hedge.