Ilex opaca Greenleaf

American Holly

Ilex opaca ‘Greenleaf’ is an evergreen holly valued for its rich glossy dark green foliage, dense branching, and classic American holly texture. The leaves are sharply spined and remain attractive through winter, while female plants may produce bright red berries when pollinated. Its strong evergreen character makes it useful for both formal and naturalized landscapes.

Type: Evergreen shrub
Mature Size: Width: 8–10 ft · Height: 15–20 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–9b

Form: Dense, pyramidal

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil

Water: Medium; prefers regular moisture during establishment

Wildlife: Berries attract birds

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for screening, specimen planting, native evergreen borders, and large foundation plantings where durable year-round structure is desired. Its classic foliage and strong form make it a dependable landscape holly.

Care:
Plant in well-drained acidic soil and avoid prolonged drought during establishment. Prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is needed. A male American holly nearby improves berry production on female plants.

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

15-20'

Width

8-10'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Dense, Pyramidal

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No