Ilex opaca, commonly known as American Holly or Christmas Holly, is a beautiful flowering shrub or small tree native to the eastern and southeastern regions of North America. 
  
 * Florida Native: Yes
 * Size at Maturity: Typically grows to 30-60 feet (9-18 meters) tall, although some specimens can reach up to 100 feet (30 meters).
 * Growth Rate: Moderate
 * Phenology: Evergreen
Leaves: Thick, smooth, dark green, glossy leaves with spiny margins. The yellowish-green undersides provide some contrast.
Flowers: Small, white flowers in spring, not very showy.
Fruits: Bright red berries produced in winter, a characteristic feature of the American Holly. These berries are a favorite food source for birds but are mildly toxic to humans and pets.
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Texture: Prefers moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate a variety of soil types.
Soil pH: Adapts to a wide range of soil pH levels.
Moisture Requirements: Average to moist
Salt Spray Tolerance: No
Recommended Landscape Uses:  Specimen plantings, hedges, borders, foundation plantings, wildlife gardens
  
Maintenance Tips: Low maintenance. Here's what you can do to keep your American Holly thriving:
 * Water regularly, especially during the first few years after planting and during dry periods.
 * Prune occasionally to maintain desired shape and size. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring.
 * Fertilize sparingly, if needed, with a balanced fertilizer suited for acid-loving plants.
 
Considerations:
 * Slow to establish but can live for centuries.
 * Male and female plants are required for berry production (female plants produce the berries, and male plants produce pollen).
 * Can be susceptible to some pests and diseases, such as holly scale and leaf miners.
 
Wildlife Benefits: Provides food and shelter for birds. The berries are a favorite food source for many birds.
 
Toxicity: Berries are mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
Additional Information:
 * American Holly is a popular Christmas decoration due to its festive red berries and evergreen foliage.