American Holly Tree Seeds

American Holly (Ilex opaca) is a beautiful evergreen tree native to the eastern United States, prized for its glossy dark green foliage and vibrant red berries that brighten winter landscapes. A classic symbol of the holiday season, this long-lived tree provides year-round beauty, excellent wildlife habitat, and dense evergreen screening. American Holly is an outstanding choice for specimen plantings, privacy hedges, woodland gardens, and naturalized landscapes.

Botanical Information

• Botanical Name - Ilex opaca
• Common Name - American Holly
• Plant Family - Aquifoliaceae
• Plant Type - Evergreen Tree
• Life Cycle - Perennial
• Native Range - Eastern and Southeastern United States
• Mature Height - 30-50 feet
• Mature Spread - 15-30 feet
• Growth Rate - Slow to Moderate
• USDA Hardiness Zones - 5-9
• Sun Requirements - Full Sun to Partial Shade
• Soil Preference - Moist, well-drained sandy, loamy, or acidic soils
• Soil pH - 5.0-6.5
• Water Requirements - Moderate
• Drought Tolerance - Moderate once established
• Salt Tolerance - Low to Moderate
• Deer Resistance - Moderate
• Wildlife Value - Excellent food and shelter source for birds and small mammals
• Container Friendly - Suitable while young
• Landscape Uses - Privacy screens, specimen tree, woodland gardens, foundation plantings, wildlife gardens, and holiday landscapes
• Germination Rate - 60-80%
• Pre-Treatment Required - Seed requires up to one year of warm moist stratification followed by 90-120 days of cold moist stratification.

Germination Instructions

American Holly seeds have a naturally long dormancy period and require patience. Place seeds in a warm, moist medium for up to one year to allow embryo development. After the warm stratification period, transfer the seeds to cold moist stratification for 90-120 days. Sow the prepared seeds approximately 1/4 inch deep in a quality seed-starting mix, keep evenly moist, and use a humidity dome until germination begins. Germination may occur gradually over several weeks.

Growing Information

• Plant in a location with full sun to partial shade.
• Prefers fertile, moist, well-drained acidic soils.
• Water regularly during establishment.
• Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperatures.
• Female trees produce bright red berries when a male holly is nearby for pollination.
• Prune lightly to maintain shape or encourage dense growth.
• Excellent for year-round privacy and ornamental value.
• Long-lived tree capable of thriving for generations with minimal maintenance once established.

Seed Quantities Available

• 1 oz. - Approximately 1,500 Seeds