Quick answer: American holly (Ilex opaca) is native to 28 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Wet |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained, acidic sandy loam |
| Bloom | Bloom Mar-Jun |
| Height | 15-25 ft in west, 40-50 ft in moister areas, up to 100 ft |
| Wildlife value | Berries attract birds and small mammals, cover and nesting sites, larval host for Henry's Elfin |
All Ilex species may be somewhat toxic if ingested; children most vulnerable; berries poisonous to humans
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about American holly
Where is American holly native?
American holly (Ilex opaca) is native to 28 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does American holly bloom?
American holly blooms Mar-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does American holly need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium water, Dry-Wet. Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic sandy loam. Mature height: 15-25 ft in west, 40-50 ft in moister areas, up to 100 ft.
Is American holly good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Berries attract birds and small mammals, cover and nesting sites, larval host for Henry's Elfin.
Is American holly deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
American holly is drought-tolerant, tolerates shade and handles wet soil.
Is American holly toxic?
All Ilex species may be somewhat toxic if ingested; children most vulnerable; berries poisonous to humans.
Where can I buy real American holly seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Ilex opaca on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with American holly.
- Northern spicebush Lindera benzoin
- Common winterberry Ilex verticillata
- Common hoptree Ptelea trifoliata
- Eastern cottonwood Populus deltoides
- Green ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica
- Bur oak Quercus macrocarpa
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.