Special Web Offer - Get 50% OFF!
Grab Your Deal Now
PlantSnap
Plant Care
Yaupon holly
(Ilex vomitoria)
Also Known As
Yaupon holly, Yaupon, Ilex, Black drink plant
About This Plant
Ilex vomitoria is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 33 feet (10 meters) tall. It has a dense crown with a rounded shape and a trunk that can reach up to 10 inches (25 cm) in diameter. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a leathery texture. The plant produces small white flowers in the spring and red berries in the fall, which are an important food source for wildlife.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
10-33 feet (3-10 meters)
Light Requirements
Ilex vomitoria prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not produce as many berries if grown in a shady area.
Humidity Needs
This plant can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels, but it prefers moderate humidity.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Avoid fertilizing in the fall or winter.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches. Avoid pruning in the fall, as this can stimulate new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests include scale insects, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases such as leaf spot and root rot can also be a problem.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor growing
Watering Schedule
This plant is drought tolerant once established, but it will benefit from regular watering during the first year after planting. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Temperature Range
Ilex vomitoria is hardy in USDA zones 7-9. It can tolerate some frost but may suffer damage in severe winters.
Growing Season
The growing season for Ilex vomitoria is from spring to fall.
Growing Difficulty Level
Ilex vomitoria is relatively easy to grow once established. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
USDA Hardiness Zones
7-9
Did You Know?
The leaves and twigs of Ilex vomitoria were traditionally used by Native Americans to make a tea with emetic properties, which was used in purification rituals. Despite its name, the plant is not actually toxic and does not cause vomiting unless consumed in large quantities.
