Ilex opaca

Habitat: most common and abundant in moist sandy woodlands of the coastal plain

Wildlife Value: This plant provides nectar for pollinators. It is a larval host plant for Henry's Elfin larvae. Adult Henry's Elfin butterflies feed on flower nectar. Its fruits are eaten by songbirds, wild turkeys, quail, white-tailed deer, squirrels and other small mammals. Honeybees are attracted to its tiny white flowers. This tree provides cover during the winter.

Notes: Highly flammable. Male and female needed to get berries but there is likely to be a male somewhere within 1/4 mile. The evergreen leaves and fruits on female plants are fragrant, and make for beautiful color and interest in a winter garden. Needs plenty of space.