Growing Guide: Yaupon Holly
Growing Tips
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained sandy or loamy soil. Yaupon Holly thrives in Florida’s hot, humid conditions and tolerates drought, salt, and occasional flooding once established. It can be shaped as a hedge or grown as a multi-stemmed ornamental tree. Female plants produce bright red berries when pollinated by nearby males. Prune lightly after fruiting to shape. Hardy in USDA Zones 7–11, this tough, beautiful native is an easy long-term addition to any landscape.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Ilex vomitoria |
| Common Names | Yaupon Holly, Cassina, Native Caffeinated Holly |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Origin | Southeastern United States (Florida native) |
| Plant Type | Evergreen shrub or small tree |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 10–25 ft tall x 8–15 ft wide (prunable) |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-drained; sandy to loamy |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Flower Color | White (small, pollinator-friendly) |
| USDA Zones | 7–11 |
| Florida Native | Yes |
| Propagation | Seeds, cuttings |
| Seasonal Traits | Evergreen |
| Time to Harvest | 0-1 years for tea leaves; ongoing harvest thereafter |
