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Possumhaw

Ilex Decidua

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Overview

Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) is a deciduous holly, prized for its vivid red berries and finely toothed green leaves that turn yellow in fall. This dioecious shrub reaches up to 15-30 feet tall, prefers full sun to part shade, and moist, well-drained soil. Its stunning winter berries provide striking contrast, attract wildlife, and create eye-catching focal points in residential or commercial landscapes. Zone: 5-9. Spread: 12-15 feet.

Sun Full, HalfWater Extra in Summer, MediumZones 5–9

Culture

Sun
Full, Half
Water
Extra in Summer, Medium
USDA zones
5–9

Shape & size

Mature height
7–15 Ft.
Mature width
6–10 Ft.

Classification

Family
Aquifoliaceae

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Photos (71)

Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — This dioecious shrub reaches up to 15-30 feet tall
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — prized for its vivid red berries and finely toothed green leaves that turn yellow in fall
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — prefers full sun to part shade
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — Its stunning winter berries provide striking contrast
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) is a deciduous holly
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — and create eye-catching focal points in residential or commercial landscapes
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — upright form is accentuated by slender
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — This versatile shrub or small tree typically grows to a height of 15 to 30 feet with a spread of 10 to 15 feet
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — The Possumhaw, scientifically known as Ilex decidua, is a deciduous holly native to the southern United States
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — which helps in the production of its bountiful fruits.<br><br>The leaves of the Possumhaw are simple
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — Possumhaw thrives in well-drained sites and can even tolerate periods of drought once established
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — grey to reddish-brown branches.<br><br>Adaptable to a variety of soil conditions
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — small white flowers blossom
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — or red before falling in autumn.<br><br>In spring
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — from green in the growing season to yellow
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — They exhibit a glossy surface and take on a stunning variety of colors through the seasons
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — and measure about 1 to 3 inches long
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — shrub with white blooms
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — shrub for full or half
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — white flowers in the garden
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — This plant offers a vibrant visual display for the client's garden
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — These berries offer an important food source for birds and other wildlife during the colder seasons
Possumhaw (Ilex Decidua) — which are followed by bright red to orange berries persisting throughout fall and into the winter months

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