Inkberry Ilex glabra

Ilex glabra, commonly called inkberry or gallberry, is a slow-growing, upright-rounded, stoloniferous, broadleaf evergreen shrub in the holly family. It typically matures to 5 to 10 feet tall, and can spread by root suckers to form colonies. It is native to the coastal plain from Nova Scotia to Florida to Louisiana where it is most commonly found in sandy woods and peripheries of swamps and bogs. This plant is moderately salt-tolerant and adaptable to both light and heavy soils. 

Inkberry is an upright, erect, rounded, much-branched shrub that becomes open with age  Prune to shape in early spring just before new growth begins. Plants generally need minimal pruning unless used as a hedge (perhaps it is best grown as an informal hedge). Remove root suckers regularly if spread is not desired.

The honey produced from the plant is a highly-rated honey that results from bees feeding on inkberry flowers. This honey is locally produced in certain parts of the Southeastern U.S. in areas where beekeepers release bees from late April to early June to coincide with inkberry flowering time.   White-tailed deer may browse the leaves and twigs, although this plant is somewhat resistant to damage by deer and is rabbit resistant. The species is dioecious (meaning individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant, thus both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). It is pollinated by bees and is not self-fertile.

Habitat: Savannas, pine flatwoods, pocosin margins, swamps, primarily in wetlands, but extending upslope even into sandhills, with a clay lens or spodic horizon below to maintain additional moisture

Fire Risk: This plant has a high flammability rating and should not be planted within the defensible space of your home. Select plants with a low flammability rating for the sites nearest your home. 

Insects, Diseases, or Other Plant Problems: 

Leaf spot is an occasional problem. Spider mites may appear, especially in dry conditions. Susceptible to chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) in high pH (alkaline) soils.  Prone to Phytophthora root rot– look for resistant alternative species if this disease is in your area.