Myrtle Leaf Holly Ilex myrtifolia

Myrtle leaf holly is a shrub in the Aquifoliaceae family with red berries and gray bark. It is a native holly that tolerates wet and shady sites and is moderately salt tolerant; however, it is not winter hardy and does not tolerate the cold. It can be found in the moist woods of the coastal plains, uncultivated in swamps and in rich moist soils. Occasionally it is also found on high sandy banks of pine barren streams. The plant is noted for its very nice red and yellow fruit set in fall and winter and would make a good hedge in a wetland area. 

Myrtle leaf holly will grow in full sun or partial shade and prefers a moist site and acidic soil. The plant does not do well when its roots are disturbed, so you should place the plants into their permanent positions and provide some winter protection for their first year or two. Flowers are produced on the current year's growth. The plant is very tolerant of pruning and can be cut right back to old wood if required. The foliage lacks the prominent spines or teeth of the American holly and is dioecious (meaning individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). It is pollinated by bees and the plant is not self-fertile. Propagate by softwood cuttings in spring. If you are using seeds, most holly species require 2-3 years of dormancy before they will germinate.

 Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Myrtle leaf holly is relatively pest and disease-free.

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

More information on Ilex.