Appalachian-tea
Ilex glabra
Last reviewed: June 2026
Ilex glabra (Appalachian-tea) is an evergreen shrub native to eastern North America from Maine to Florida and Texas. This adaptable holly blooms white flowers in May and June, attracting bees, butterflies, and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Appalachian-tea as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–96" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Inkberry holly is a versatile native evergreen shrub that forms dense, rounded clumps with small glossy leaves. It produces tiny white flowers in late spring followed by black berries on female plants. This adaptable shrub tolerates various soil conditions and can be pruned to maintain desired size and shape.
Growing Appalachian-tea
Grow Appalachian-tea in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 36 to 96 inches tall and spread 36 to 96 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Appalachian-tea is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Host plant for Henry's Elfin butterfly.
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during bloom season. Female plants produce berries that provide food for birds through winter months.
Common questions
- Where does Ilex glabra naturally grow?
- Ilex glabra is native to the eastern United States, found from Maine south to Florida and west to Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
- When does Appalachian-tea bloom?
- Ilex glabra produces small white flowers during May and June.
- What pollinators visit Ilex glabra?
- The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles during the blooming period.
- What growing conditions does Ilex glabra prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates a wide range of conditions from full sun to partial shade and wet to moderately dry soils.
- Is Appalachian-tea toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Appalachian-tea as toxic to livestock.
- Is Appalachian-tea HOA-friendly?
- Appalachian-tea is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Appalachian-tea? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz