The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Portia Orton American holly

Family: Aquifoliaceae (holly family)

Distribution: Species native to e. United States

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Evergreen tree

Comments: A hardy evergreen female holly selection named by Elwin Orton of Rutgers University for his wife. It has dark green, glossy blue-green leaves and grows as a densely conical small tree to 20' tall and 10' wide. In the presence of a suitable male pollinator, it produces abundant bright red fruit in late fall and early winter that are relished by birds. Easily pruned and is suitable used as screen, hedge or foundation planting. Excellent cut greens for the holidays.