Species › Plants › Carolina Holly

Carolina Holly

Ilex ambigua

RarePlant
Illustration of Carolina Holly (Ilex ambigua)

Carolina Holly is a deciduous holly with bright red berries that persist into winter, providing a splash of color. It is a shrub or small tree that is often found in mixed hardwood forests. The berries are mildly toxic to humans but a valuable food source for birds.

Habitat
It is found in dry, sandy soils and mixed forests of the southeastern United States.
Diet
Birds eat its berries, which helps in seed dispersal.
How common
Rare

Best time to see a Carolina Holly

The best time to see a Carolina Holly is July–November, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 713 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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