Ilex montana

Mountain holly is a deciduous tree or shrub in the holly family (Aquifoliaceae) found mostly in the mountains of North Carolina and rarely in the Piedmont. It grows in mesic forests from New York to Georgia, in the Appalachian Mountains. The specific epithet, montana, is Latin for “of mountains.”

Grow in average, moist, well-drained acidic soils in sun to partial shade. It can be grown as a shrub or a tree. It has some drought tolerance. The plant can be pruned to shape, but keep in mind that next year's blossoms and fruit will appear on new growth.

Mountain holly has large, spinless leaves and larger fruit than most hollies. The leaves are dull green above and light green below with raised white veins on the lower surface.  Like most hollies, it is dioecious, so both a male and female plant are needed to produce berries. The red berries are a favorite of birds and small mammals. It is slow to reach maturity, but once established it tends to have a long lifespan. 

Use for winter interest, naturalized areas and to attract pollinators and birds. It is a fine addition to a native plant garden or pollinator garden. 

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known diseases or insect pests.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common diseases and insect pests of hollies.

More information on Ilex.