Possumhaw Holly (Ilex decidua) – Deciduous Holly with Stunning Winter Berries

Add a splash of vibrant winter color to your landscape with the Possumhaw Holly (Ilex decidua), a deciduous holly renowned for its brilliant red berries, delicate branching structure, and year-round wildlife appeal. This hardy, adaptable tree thrives in a variety of conditions and is perfect for naturalized plantings, woodland edges, and ornamental gardens.

Key Features:

• Brilliant Winter Berries – Female trees produce clusters of striking red berries that persist through winter, creating a stunning seasonal display.
• Wildlife Favorite – Attracts birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.
• Hardy & Adaptable – Tolerates wet soils, drought, and a range of light conditions, thriving in diverse landscapes.
• Low Maintenance – Requires minimal care once established, with excellent disease and pest resistance.
• Versatile Landscape Use – Ideal for hedges, screens, specimen plantings, and naturalized areas.

Product Details:

• Botanical Name: Ilex decidua
• Plant Type: Deciduous Tree
• Mature Height: 10–20 feet
• Mature Width: 8–15 feet
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of wet and dry conditions
• 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 8–12 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 periods, to encourage healthy root development.
• Pruning: Shape as needed in late winter or early spring to maintain structure and size.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote growth.
• General Care: Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With its eye-catching berries, wildlife benefits, and adaptable nature, the Possumhaw Holly is a fantastic addition to winter gardens, native landscapes, and ornamental plantings.