Possom-haw Holly
Ilex decidua
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–300" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Possum-haw holly is a large deciduous shrub that can reach 10-25 feet tall and wide. It produces small white flowers in late spring followed by bright red berries that persist through winter on female plants. This native holly loses its leaves in fall, making it unique among hollies.
In an HOA neighborhood
Possom-haw Holly takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely large size inappropriate for most residential settings
- Can look sparse and ungainly when leafless in winter
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles in late spring. The bright red berries provide important winter food for birds and add seasonal interest to the landscape.
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.
Does Possom-haw Holly fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.