Ilex vomitoria Yaupon holly (Aquifoliaceae) Evergreen shrub

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Ilex vomitoria
Yaupon holly
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Ilex vomitoria plant species is found in Southeastern N. America - Virginia to Florida, west to Texas and Arkansas. It is a member of the Aquifoliaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Yaupon holly.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Ilex vomitoria
Common Name:  Yaupon holly
Family:  Aquifoliaceae
Author:  Ait.

Known Hazards:  Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, at least some members of this genus are slightly toxic so some caution is advised.

Mature Height:  6   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Sandy woods and clearings[43]. Low moist woods, especially near the coast[149]. Often forming dense thickets along streams and pond margins and shallow swamp lands[229].

Medicinal Information: A decoction of the leaves is emetic[4, 11, 171]. The plant was used ritually by several N. American Indian tribes. The leaves were toasted over a fire and then boiled for several hours. The resulting thick black liquid was then drunk and this was followed by immediate vomiting[213]. This was often used a a purification rite prior to hunting[213].

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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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