Identify American Holly

Hollies are shrubs and trees with a wide distribution in Asia, Europe, Africa, and North and South America. Most species are found in the tropics and subtropics of America and Asia. American holly is the only native North American holly that attains tree size. Holly berries are mildly toxic and will cause vomiting and/or diarrhea when ingested by people. However they are extremely important food for numerous species of birds, and also are eaten by other wild animals.

The Common North American Holly Species

• American holly

Leaves: alternate , simple, generally leathery and evergreen with stickers.
Fruit: a round drupe or red berry.

ash | beech | basswood | birch | black cherry | black walnut/butternut | cottonwood | elm | hackberry | hickory | holly | locust | magnolia | maple | oak | poplar | red alder | royal paulownia | sassafras | sweetgum | sycamore | tupelo | willow | yellow-poplar

ID Glossary