Dwarf Yaupon Ilex vomitoria 'Dwarf'

'Dwarf' (synonym 'Nana') is a dwarf cultivar of yaupon holly. It is a woody, perennial, broadleaf evergreen shrub or tree in the holly family (Aquifoliaceae). It is native to the eastern United States and Mexico. The genus name Ilex is in reference to the similarity of the leaves to Quercus ilex or holm oak. The leaves of the parent plant were used for ceremonial tea, which, when consumed in large quantities, caused a cleansing now memorialized by the specific epithet vomitoria.  

Dwarf yaupon is a compact, rounded shrub that rapidly grows 3 to 5 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide. Plant it in average, well-drained, neutral to acidic soils in full sun to partial shade; It will produce more flowers in sun. It is resistant to Phytophthora root rot, drought, salt spray, and deer browsing. Propagate by stem cutting.

This cultivar was developed from several seedlings found in the wild in Louisiana. The original 'Dwarf' as introduced by S. Stokes was female. It is not a sport of 'Stokes Dwarf' (synonym 'Schilling's Dwarf'), which is male. It seems quite likely that the cultivars have been confused and mixed up in nurseries over the decades but all sold under the 'Dwarf' or 'Nana' name.

‘Dwarf’ yaupon has brittle, close-knit branches and dark green leaves that are yellow-green when new. This holly spreads wider than it is tall and can withstand heavy pruning, thus it can be used for topiary and in formal plantings. The dense evergreen leaves make it a good choice for use as a hedge, screen, windbreak, or barrier. Plant at the edge of a pond, in a naturalized area, around a patio, or in a recreational play area. The flowers attract bees, including specialized bees, and the fruits, which are very infrequently produced, attract small mammals and songbirds. Large, old plants can produce fruit more reliably, but this cultivar is not a good choice if fruits are desired.

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, and Other Problems: Holly leaf miner, spider mites, aphids, whitefly, and scale are occasional problems. Leaf spot, leaf rot, tar spot, and powdery mildew are potential disease problems.

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

VIDEO: Part of a series of Native Plant Picks from the North Carolina Sea Grant Coastal Landscapes Initiative.

More information on Ilex vomitoria.