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Holly, Possumhaw Yaupon (Native)
Ilex decidua
Possumhaw is a Texas native deciduous holly known for its striking winter display of bright red berries. This small tree or large shrub is a valuable addition to the landscape, providing year-round interest with its dense green foliage in the growing season and showy fruit in the colder months. Thriving in a wide range of soil conditions, including acidic or alkaline soils, it is well-suited to Texas landscapes. Possumhaw is adaptable to various moisture levels, tolerating both seasonal flooding and periods of drought, making it a resilient choice for naturalistic plantings.
This holly is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female. Only female plants produce the vibrant berries, but a male plant must be present nearby for pollination. When grown from seed, the sex of the plant is unpredictable, so purchasing a large specimen that has been identified as a female or one showing berries may be preferable for those seeking reliable berry production. The berries provide an important winter food source for birds, adding ecological value to the landscape. Possumhaw is also deer-resistant and tolerates full sun to partial shade, although berry production is best with ample sunlight.
Mature Possumhaw trees reach heights of 15 to 25 feet with a spread of 10 to 15 feet. When used for screening or mass planting, space them about 8 to 12 feet apart. The tree’s naturally multi-trunked habit can be maintained for a shrubby form, or it can be trained into a single trunk for a more tree-like appearance. It is commonly used as a specimen plant, in mixed woodland borders, or as part of a wildlife-friendly habitat.
Though Possumhaw is highly cold-hardy and well-adapted to Texas winters, its berries persist longest in milder climates where birds do not consume them quickly. No special winter protection is needed, as the tree naturally sheds its leaves in fall, leaving behind its signature display of fruit. Pruning can be done in late winter before new growth begins, shaping the plant as desired while preserving berry production for the following season.
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Dioecious Texas Native |
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Wildlife Friendly |
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Drought Tolerant |
Flower Color:White
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Height:15-25 Feet
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Spread:10-15 Feet
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Spacing:8-12 Feet
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USDA Hardiness Zone 5a
Available Sizes:
| Item |
Description |
| HOL-PNA-05 |
#005 HOLLY, POSSUM HAW (NATIVE) |
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Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Full Sun |
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Full Sun to Full Shade |
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Full Sun to Part Shade |
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Part Shade to Full Shade |
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Texas Native
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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Toxic to Pets
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