American holly Aquifoliaceae Ilex opaca Aiton   symbol: ILOP
	Leaf: Alternate, simple, evergreen, elliptical, 2 to 4 inches long, spiny toothed margin, thickened and leathery, shiny dark green above, much paler below. Flower: Dioecious; dull green-white, male flowers on 3 to 7 flowered cymes, female flowers are solitary with a pleasant odor, appearing in late spring. Fruit: Berry-like drupe, red, rarely yellow when ripe, 1/4 inch in diameter, containing ribbed nutlets; maturing in fall and persisting on tree into winter. Twig: Slender, with rust-colored pubescence; buds small reddish brown, pointed. Bark: Light gray and smooth regardless of size. Form: A small tree to 40 feet, with a thick crown and pyramidal form, usually with branches to the ground.
	USDAFS Silvics of North America - USDAFS Additional Silvics - USDA Plants Database Ilex opaca is native to North America. Range may be expanded by planting. See states reporting American holly (opens a new window).