Ilex opaca 'Maryland Dwarf' (dwarf spreading American holly)

University of Maryland Extension Recommended Native Shrub

Maryland DNR Deer-Resistant Plant

'Maryland Dwarf' is a dwarf, spreading cultivar of American holly that can provide excellent color for the Winter landscape as a foundation planting or in woodland grdens. This all-female cultivar is easily grown in average, consistently moist, acidic, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Typically grows to 3' tall and spreads to as much as 10' wide. May grow taller but is easily kept compact through regular pruning. Tolerates a broad range of soil conditions but will not tolerate flooding or soils saturated with moisture. Part afternoon shade is best in hot summer climates.

American Holly is an understory tree native to the eastern and south-central U.S. In Maryland, is most abundant on the coastal plain in moist, sandy woodlands. The flowers are pollinated by bees, wasps, ants, night-flying moths, and other insects. The tree's thick canopy provides protection for birds from predators and storms. The fruits are eaten by a wide variety of birds, including thrushes, mockingbirds, catbirds bluebids, thrashers, and other songbirds. Some mammals also feed on the berries. Host plant for various moth species.

BONAP Native Range Map for Ilex opaca (straight species). Bright green indicates native to the county, dark green indicates native to the state.

Photo credit: Octoraro Farm Nursery