The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Red Velvet American holly

Family: Aquifoliaceae (holly family)

Distribution: Species native to e. United States

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Evergreen tree

Comments: This Orlando Pride selection has been in The Arboretum's holly collection since 1968 and has withstood -27ºF without damage. It is one among those considered highly recommended in evaluations. A well-branched, broadly conical, broadleaf female evergreen growing on average 15' tall by 10' wide in 25 years. Small white flowers open in May. In the presence of a male pollinator, bright red berries are borne heavily and persist through most of the winter. Use as an evergreen hedge or specimen for winter interest.