Carolina Holly (Ilex ambigua) – Native Deciduous Holly with Bright Red Berries

Bring natural beauty and wildlife appeal to your landscape with Carolina Holly (Ilex ambigua), a native deciduous holly prized for its bright red berries, delicate foliage, and adaptability. This hardy tree thrives in various conditions, making it a great choice for naturalized areas, woodland gardens, and wildlife-friendly landscapes.

Key Features:

• Brilliant Red Berries – Female trees produce clusters of vibrant red berries that persist into winter, adding a stunning seasonal accent.
• Wildlife-Friendly – Attracts birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects, making it ideal for native and wildlife gardens.
• Hardy & Adaptable – Tolerates dry, sandy soils and diverse growing conditions, thriving in natural settings.
• Low Maintenance – Requires minimal care once established, with good disease and pest resistance.
• Versatile Use – Ideal for hedgerows, screens, woodland edges, and specimen plantings.

Product Details:

• Botanical Name: Ilex ambigua
• Plant Type: Deciduous Tree
• Mature Height: 10–20 feet
• Mature Width: 6–12 feet
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils; drought-tolerant once established
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Pollination: Requires a male pollinator for berry production

Planting Instructions:

• Seed Preparation: Stratify seeds in moist sand for 60–90 days before planting.
• Sowing: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil; space trees 6–12 feet apart.
• Germination: Keep soil moist and warm; germination may take 6–12 months.
• Transplanting: Move seedlings once they are well-established and sturdy.

Care & Maintenance:

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to encourage strong root development.
• Pruning: Shape as needed in late winter or early spring to maintain form and size.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth.
• General Care: Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With its striking red berries, natural charm, and easy-care nature, the Carolina Holly is a fantastic addition to native gardens, woodland landscapes, and wildlife habitats.