
Possumhaw (Ilex decidua)
Possumhaw, also known as Deciduous yaupon, Swamp holly
Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) is a deciduous holly that can range from a shrub to a small tree, typically reaching heights of 7-15 feet. It features simple, oblong leaves with serrated edges. The plant produces small, white to greenish flowers in the spring. In the fall, bright red or orange berries appear, which can persist into winter. Notably, only female plants bear these berries, and they need a male plant nearby for pollination.
Key Facts About Possumhaw
Attributes of Possumhaw
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Plant Height
2 m to 4.5 m
Spread
3 m to 4.5 m
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
White Green
Scientific Classification of Possumhaw
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Aquifoliales
Family
Holly
Genus
Ilex
Species
Possumhaw
Toxicity
Ingestion of berries or leaves