American holly

Ilex opaca 'Mamie Eisenhower'

American holly, or Ilex opaca 'Mamie Eisenhower', is an evergreen conical shrub valued for its foliage and large, bright red berries. It's a small, slow-growing tree, reaching up to 15 feet in height. Although it can be cultivated as a container plant, it is best grown in a sunny spot in the ground. In spring, small white flowers appear on the plant before being replaced by colorful red berries which last through the winter season. The plant has broad, shiny green leaves with stout spines along the edges. This native North American species is an excellent choice for a landscape hedge or windbreak.