Description
Ilex opaca, commonly known as American holly, is a species of holly native to the eastern United States & southeastern Canada. It's a broadleaf evergreen tree that typically grows up to 50 feet tall, though it can sometimes reach 80 feet. The leaves are glossy green, oval to elliptical in shape, with spiny margins. Female trees produce bright red berries that persist through the winter, providing a food source for birds & other wildlife. It's a popular ornamental tree, often used in landscaping & holiday decorations due to its attractive foliage & berries. Additionally, its wood is valued for its hardness & is used in woodworking & for making fine furniture. Hardy in zones 5-9. Growing Instructions for the American Holly The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the spring or summer & they will germinate the next spring or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions & to break their dormancy at any time of the year. 1. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. 2. Warm stratify the seeds for 60 days. 3. Cold stratify the seeds for 60 days. 3. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil & half sand, perlite or vermiculite. 4. Put the soil in a pot. 5. Sow the seeds 3/8 of an inch deep. 6. Water the soil so that it is moist but not wet. 7. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted. American Holly Ilex Opaca 100 Seeds USA Company
