Ilex opaca American holly (Aquifoliaceae) Evergreen shrub

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Ilex opaca
American holly
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Ilex opaca plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Massachusets to Florida and west to Texas. It is a member of the Aquifoliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as American holly. Some home gardeners know the variety as I. quercifolia. Meerb.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Ilex opaca
Common Name:  American holly
Family:  Aquifoliaceae
Author:  Ait.

Known Hazards:  The fruits can cause violent vomiting[222].

Mature Height:  15   Mature Width:  1.5

Habitat:  Grows in a variety of soil types, but it is generally found in deep moist bottomlands[229]. Moist woods, hedges and fields[43, 184].

Medicinal Information: The berries are laxative, emetic and diuretic[222]. They are used in the treatment of children's diarrhoea, colic and indigestion[222]. A tea made from the leaves has been used as a treatment for measles, colds etc[222, 257]. The leaves have also been used externally in the treatment of sore eyes, sore and itchy skin[222, 257]. A tea made from the bark was once used in the treatment of malaria and epilepsy[222]. It has also been used as a wash for sore eyes and itchy skin[257].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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