Ilex ambigua

Common Names

Carolina Holly, Sand Holly

Summary

Ilex ambigua, commonly called Carolina holly or sand holly, is a native southeastern shrub or small tree up to 6 meters tall with leaves 4–18 cm long and margins finely serrate or crenulate, typically elliptic to nearly round; it features purple twigs and bark that is shiny dark brown to black and becomes flaky with age, and bears white flowers and red globose drupes (5–9 mm) that are dispersed by animals and can persist into winter, with fruit production requiring both male and female individuals. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun on well-drained sandy acidic soil, tolerates a moisture range from not wet but not extremely dry to extended dry periods, and is not tolerant of saline inundation or salt spray; propagation is by softwood cuttings in spring, and landscape use includes a large shrub or small understory tree that provides fruit for birds and small mammals.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

15-20 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 8a-10a

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full Sun, also suitable for Partial Shade

Soil Type

Sandy, well-drained upland soils

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soils

Soil pH

Acidic soil

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Green-yellow

Fall Foliage Color

Unknown

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Root-crown sprouting after top-kill.

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and birds