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Ilex ambigua
Ilex ambigua (Michx.) Torr.
Carolina Holly, Sand Holly, Possum Holly
Aquifoliaceae (Holly Family)
Synonym(s): Ilex beadlei, Ilex buswellii, Ilex caroliniana, Ilex montana var. beadlei, Ilex montana var. mollis
USDA Symbol: ilam
USDA Native Status: L48 (N)
Deciduous shrub or sometimes a small tree with irregular or rounded crown.
This holly is recognized by the usually elliptical, rather than round, translucent fruit and by the petals, which sometimes number 5 instead of 4. The Latin species name, meaning "ambiguous" or "doubtful," suggests uncertainty in the classification when the species was first distinguished and named.
From the Image Gallery
No images of this plant
Plant Characteristics
Duration: PerennialHabit: Tree
Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Fruit Type: Drupe
Fruit: Although technically drupes, the fruit is commonly referred to as berries.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: WhiteBloom Time: Mar , Apr
Distribution
USA: AL , AR , FL , GA , KY , LA , MS , NC , OK , SC , TN , TX , VA , WVNative Distribution: North Carolina to central Florida, west to E. Texas and SE. Oklahoma; to 1000' (3-5 m).
Native Habitat: Moist well-drained soils of upland forests.
From the National Organizations Directory
According to the species list provided by Affiliate Organizations, this plant is on display at the following locations:Mt. Cuba Center - Hockessin, DE
Bibliography
Bibref 298 - Field Guide to Texas Trees (1999) Simpson, B.J.Search More Titles in Bibliography
Additional resources
USDA: Find Ilex ambigua in USDA PlantsFNA: Find Ilex ambigua in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Ilex ambigua
Metadata
Record Modified: 2023-01-02Research By: TWC Staff