American holly facts for kids
Quick facts for kids American holly |
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| Foliage and immature fruit | |
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| Genus: |
Ilex
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| Species: |
opaca
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| Natural range of Ilex opaca | |
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Ilex opaca, also known as the American holly, is a type of holly tree. It grows naturally in the eastern and south-central United States. You can find it from coastal Massachusetts all the way south to central Florida. It also grows west to southeastern Missouri and eastern Texas.
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About the American Holly Tree
The American holly is a medium-sized evergreen tree. This means it keeps its leaves all year round. It usually grows to be 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet) tall. Some very tall ones can reach up to 30 meters (98 feet).
Its trunk is typically about 50 centimeters (20 inches) wide. The bark is light gray and feels a bit bumpy. Young branches are green at first, then turn smooth and brown.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of the American holly are about 5 to 7.5 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) long. They are stiff and have a dull, yellow-green color on top. The edges of the leaves have several sharp, spike-like points. These leaves stay on the tree for two to three years before new ones push them off in the spring.
In late spring, the tree grows small, greenish-white flowers. These flowers grow in clusters from where the leaves meet the branches.
American hollies are special because they are dioecious. This means there are separate male and female plants. Only the female plants produce the bright red berries that people love. For the best berry production, you need about three female plants for every one male plant.
Berries
The fruit of the American holly is a small, round red berry. It is about 6 to 12 millimeters (0.2 to 0.5 inches) wide. Each berry contains four seeds. These berries often stay on the tree throughout the winter.
It's important to know that these berries are not safe for people or pets to eat. If eaten, they can cause upset stomachs.
Types of American Holly
There are different types, or subspecies and varieties, of American holly:
- Ilex opaca subsp. arenicola
- Ilex opaca var. laxiflora
- Ilex opaca subsp. opaca
- Ilex opaca var. opaca
Where American Holly Lives
American holly trees often grow under taller trees in moist forests. You can find them in the eastern, southeastern, and south-central parts of the United States. They are less common in the northern areas like Cape Cod, Massachusetts. But they are very common further south along the Gulf and Atlantic lowlands.
These trees can grow in both dry and wet soil. However, they grow slowly. They can also grow well in shady spots. The best amount of rain for them is between 102 and 165 centimeters (40 to 65 inches) per year.
Holly and Wildlife
Many insects help to pollinate the holly flowers. These include bees, wasps, ants, and even some moths that fly at night.
The American holly tree also provides a safe home for many animals. Its thick leaves create a dense canopy. This canopy offers protection for songbirds from predators and bad weather. Birds like thrushes, mockingbirds, catbirds, bluebirds, and thrashers often eat the berries. Some gamebirds and small mammals also enjoy them.
Uses of American Holly
The wood of the American holly is very pale and strong. It can be polished nicely. People use it for things like whip handles and for making furniture. It can also be dyed black to look like ebony.
The leaves of the American holly can be used to make a tea-like drink. This tea does not have caffeine in it.
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Growing Holly as an Ornamental Plant
Many plant nurseries grow American holly trees. People plant them in their yards as ornamental plants. They can be grown as a shrub or as a slow-growing tree.
There are over 1,000 different types, or cultivars, of American holly that people have chosen for special traits. Some are chosen because they can handle very cold weather. Others are picked for their unique shapes, like dwarf types that stay small. Some are even chosen for the color and amount of their berries, including types with yellow berries!
Holly in Winter and Holidays
Holly is very popular for Christmas and holiday season decorations. In many stories and poems, especially from England, holly is linked to Christmas celebrations. This tradition is also followed in North America. Holly and mistletoe are often used to decorate homes and churches during the holidays.
The American holly is similar to the European holly (Ilex aquifolium). The leaves of both are alike in shape and have similar spiky edges. However, the American holly's leaves are brighter and larger. The American holly was named the state tree of Delaware on May 1, 1939.
The holly berries often stay on the tree until midwinter. This is because they might need more time to ripen, or they might be a last-resort food for animals when other food is scarce. Remember, the berries are poisonous to dogs, cats, and humans. They can cause sickness if eaten.
See also
In Spanish: Ilex opaca para niños
