treeN. America Native

Dahoon Holly

Ilex cassine

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

High

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived tree

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Berries are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex cassine is a broadleaf evergreen holly native to the coastal plains of the southeastern United States. It typically grows as a large shrub or small tree with an upright, pyramidal habit and smooth, nearly spineless leaves. Dahoon Holly is uniquely adapted to wet, boggy, and even periodically flooded soils, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens or low-lying areas. Female plants produce a profusion of bright red berries that are a vital winter food source for wildlife.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Dahoon Holly offers fine-textured, evergreen foliage and a spectacular winter display of bright red berries. Its ability to thrive in wet areas allows for beautiful plantings where few other trees can survive.

It is an excellent choice for stabilizing soil in wet areas, for use in rain gardens to manage stormwater runoff, and for creating naturalistic screens in moist landscapes.

As a native species, it is a superb wildlife plant. The flowers support native pollinators, and the berries are a critical winter food source for dozens of bird species. The dense branches provide cover and nesting sites.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun to part shade with consistently moist soil.
This plant prefers acidic soil, so amend with peat if necessary.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Set the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill with native soil and water deeply.
Mulch with pine straw or bark to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

This holly thrives in wet conditions where others would fail; don't be afraid to plant it in a low, soggy spot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide ample water, especially when establishing.
Plant in acidic soil for best growth and color.
Choose a female plant for berries, and ensure a male is nearby.
Embrace its natural, often irregular form.

Don't

Do not let the soil dry out for extended periods.
Avoid planting in high pH (alkaline) soils.
Don't perform heavy shearing; it spoils the natural character.
Don't be concerned about temporary standing water; it is very tolerant.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Ideal specimen for rain gardensNaturalistic planting near ponds or streamsEvergreen screen in moist locations

Companion Plants

Magnolia virginiana Sabal minor Clethra alnifolia Iris virginica Osmunda cinnamomea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dahoon Holly questions

What zones can Dahoon Holly grow in?

Dahoon Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dahoon Holly deer resistant?

Yes — Dahoon Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Dahoon Holly bloom?

Dahoon Holly typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dahoon Holly need full sun?

Dahoon Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.