Ilex vomitoria - Yaupon holly
Family Aquifoliaceae
Description:
This holly is native to the southeastern U.S. and Mexico, including north Florida. Like most hollies, this species is dioecious. This is a popular landscape plant in the southern U.S. It is adaptable to a wide variety of garden conditions. Several varieties have been selected for their growth habits, leaf types and fruit colors. The leaves were used to make a ceremonial drink by native Americans. The fruits are valuable as wildlife food.
Location:
See the dwarf shrubby variety in the 123 Plaza and the front of the library. See the weeping variety at the Arena. Typical tree types are scattered around campus.
Size:
The typical wild plant is a small to medium sized tree of twenty feet tall or more. The dwarf, shrubby varieties can reach about four to five feet tall.
Care Instructions:
Light: full sun to part shade
Water: very drought tolerant when established
Soil: very adaptable, no special requirements
This is a very adaptable garden plant in north Florida. It is adaptable to moist, dry, sunny, and shady gardens.