Species

Ilex opacaAmerican Holly

3 other cultivars

treeN. America Native

Satyr Hill American Holly

Ilex opaca 'Satyr Hill'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex opaca, the American Holly, is a broadleaf evergreen tree native to the eastern and south-central United States. It is characterized by its classic spiny, dull green leaves and bright red berries on female plants, which persist through winter.

'Satyr Hill' is a highly-regarded female cultivar known for its dense, symmetrical, pyramidal form, dark olive-green leaves, and extremely heavy production of large, bright red berries. It is a vigorous grower and considered one of the best berry-producing American hollies.

Uses & Benefits:

The 'Satyr Hill' American Holly is a quintessential landscape tree, offering a classic pyramidal form, evergreen leaves, and a spectacular display of bright red berries that persist through winter, providing unparalleled cold-season interest.

It serves as an excellent specimen tree for lawns or can be planted in a row to create a dense, tall screen for privacy and wind protection. The berried branches are highly prized for holiday decorations.

As a native tree, it provides tremendous ecological benefits. The berries are a critical winter food source for over 40 species of birds, including robins, cedar waxwings, and mockingbirds. The dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites.

SpeciesIlex opacaAmerican Holly

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

360 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Very long-lived tree

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Berries are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with sun to part shade and acidic, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Set the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Remember to plant a male pollinator nearby for berry production.
Backfill with native soil and water deeply.
Mulch around the base, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant a male pollinator, like 'Jersey Knight', within 40 feet to ensure heavy berry production on this female cultivar.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide acidic soil; amend with sulfur if your soil is alkaline.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
Protect from winter wind and sun in the northern parts of its range.
Prune to maintain its natural pyramidal shape.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained or wet soils.
Avoid planting in high pH soils.
Don't forget to provide a male pollinator if you want berries.
Avoid heavy pruning, which can ruin its form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Classic evergreen specimen treeExcellent tall screen or hedgeProvides critical winter food for birds

Companion Plants

Magnolia grandiflora Cornus florida Viburnum nudum 'Winterthur'Fothergilla gardenii Rhododendron catawbiense

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Satyr Hill American Holly questions

What zones can Satyr Hill American Holly grow in?

Satyr Hill American Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Satyr Hill American Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Satyr Hill American Holly bloom?

Satyr Hill American 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 Satyr Hill American Holly need full sun?

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