Swamp holly facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Swamp holly |
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| 1989 illustration | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ilex
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| Species: |
amelanchier
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| Natural range of Ilex amelanchier | |
The swamp holly, also known as sarvis holly, is a special type of holly plant. Its scientific name is Ilex amelanchier. This plant is quite rare and grows in the southeastern United States. It is a close relative of another plant called mountain holly. Swamp holly loves water, so you will often find it growing near rivers or streambanks.
What is Swamp Holly?
Swamp holly is a species of plant that belongs to the Ilex family, which is the same family as the well-known Christmas holly. Unlike some other hollies, swamp holly is not very common. This means it is a "rare species." It was first described by scientists in 1860.
What Does It Look Like?
The swamp holly is a tree or a large shrub. It is known for its small, dull red fruits. These fruits are called "drupes," but you can think of them as berries. They usually appear in the fall, around October or November. What is cool about these berries is that they can stay on the plant all through the winter, sometimes even until the next spring!
Where Does It Grow?
Swamp holly has a specific home. It grows only in the Atlantic coastal plain and the Gulf Coastal Plain of the United States. These are flat areas of land near the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. You can find swamp holly as far south as Florida, as far west as Louisiana, and as far north as North Carolina. It prefers wet, swampy areas, which is how it got its name.
