Common Holly
Ilex aquifolium
Washington State Classification
Class C — Widespread, County-Selected Control
Holly is a legacy crop in Washington, and has been grown for over 100 years! It is a valuable crop with a lot of cultural significance and practical uses, such as a hedgerow plant.
Quick Reference
Identification
Growth Habit
This shrub can get as tall as 30 feet, and can dominate the understory of Washington's native forest stands.
Leaves
Holly's leaves are lobed, ending in sharp points. They are deep green and covered in a waxy coating.
Flowers
Female plants have small, white to light green flowers that have 4 round petals. Male plants non-descript light green to white round shapes with 4 anthers coming from the center. All the flowers grow individually and directly from the branches, on very short stems.
Fruit & Seeds
Bright, red berries, which are popular with birds.
Impact
Holly is a legacy crop in Washington, and has been grown for over 100 years! It is a valuable crop with a lot of cultural significance and practical uses, such as a hedgerow plant. Holly has an important place in Washington's agriculture and our history. To learn more about holly in the Pacific Northwest, see the Northwest Holly Growers Association's website.
Ecology & Spread
Habitat
Healthy and disturbed forest understories, riparian areas, and shady areas throughout Western Washington, in a variety of soil types. Will produce more seed when exposed to light. Click here to see an informal map of known common holly locations in Washington as of August 2024.
Spread Mechanisms
Reproduction
Seed spread by birds, as well as vegetatively, when stems and branches have access to moist soil.
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