American Holly Trees have been adored by plant lovers as long as the days of the Pilgrims and the beginning of American history. It supplied the Native Americans with wood for many applications and berries they used to barter with or use as buttons. George Washington favored this tree and many that he planted are still around today. The twigs of these trees are a symbol of Christmas cheer and having the entire tree will give you much more!

Characteristics of the Evergreen & Ornamental American Holly Tree

The first time the American holly tree was observed scientifically was in 1744. The tree falls into two categories, evergreen and ornamental. It will keep its foliage throughout the year and because of this, adds beauty throughout all seasons. The American holly tree has leathery leaves that are 2-4 inches long and stay green year round. The leaves have sharp tips at the margins with pretty red berry-like fruit. These trees will produce inconspicuous flowers that are greenish or cream in color that smell pleasant. It also provides year-round cover and food for birds and mammals. Bees find the flowers attractive. Once the first frost has settled, its fruit is eaten by quail, grouse, wild turkeys and songbirds but can be toxic for humans.

American Holly Tree Growth Rate

This tree can grow as high as 40-50 feet at be as wide as 18-40 feet when its completely mature. It has a slow to medium growth rate. Areas of your landscape best suited for American holly trees are those with full sun and partial shade. This means four hours minimum or direct, unfiltered sunlight every day. These trees do need shelter from the drying effects of wind in the northern part of its planting range. It does very well in soil that is loamy, acidic, rich, moist, sandy, well-drained and clay. Normal moisture is the best but it does have some tolerance to flooding and drought conditions. This tree grows in a pyramid shape but can be pruned into an attractive hedge. Many gardens need a screening plant to provide privacy or block an ugly view and because it can be pruned to a hedge, it’s great. Even though it grows quickly it does not need constant trimming. It also tolerates shade well which is hard to find in screening trees. You can have a 20 foot tall screen or hedge in as little as ten years if it grows under ideal conditions. It’s beneficial to plant these trees in multiples of four or more for cross-pollination to give you those pretty red berries.

Evergreen & Ornamental American Holly Tree Trimming, Pruning & Removal in McDonough, Jackson, Jonesboro, Fayetteville & Hampton as well as Fayette, Clayton & Henry Counties in Central Georgia

Planting an American holly tree will provide your landscape with beauty for years to come. The red berries of this tree will brighten the dark days of winter and help you decorate for the holidays. Contact Milam’s Tree Services for more information on the American holly tree or to take care of existing trees on your property.