Species Profile: Yaupon Holly

Common Name: Yaupon Holly
Scientific Name: Ilex vomitoria

Location:
Native to the southeastern United States, including Central and East Texas. Grows in a variety of habitats—from sandy soils and coastal plains to woodlands and urban landscapes. In Central Texas, it is widely used as an ornamental shrub or small tree in residential and commercial plantings.

Mating Habits:
A dioecious shrub/tree, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Only female plants produce berries, but pollination by insects is required. Flowers are small and inconspicuous, blooming in spring (April–May).

Seasonal Habits / Bloom Time:
Evergreen shrub or small tree that maintains glossy green foliage year-round. Flowers bloom in spring, followed by clusters of bright red berries in fall and winter on female plants. Berries often persist into late winter, providing a critical seasonal food source.

Ecological Relevance:
An important native species for wildlife habitat. The flowers provide nectar for pollinators, and the berries feed a wide variety of birds and mammals through fall and winter. The dense evergreen foliage provides cover for nesting and roosting.

Interesting Facts:

  • The only native North American plant that naturally contains caffeine. Indigenous peoples brewed its leaves into a caffeinated tea.

  • The berries are toxic to humans if eaten in quantity but safe and highly valuable for wildlife.

  • Can be pruned as a hedge, grown as a small tree, or left to grow naturally in landscapes.

Wildlife Associations:
Supports pollinators with spring blooms. Its berries are eaten by more than 40 bird species, including cedar waxwings, robins, and mockingbirds, as well as small mammals like raccoons and squirrels. Provides dense, evergreen shelter for birds year-round.

Conservation Note:
An excellent native shrub/tree for Central Texas landscapes, combining ornamental appeal with strong ecological value. Yaupon Holly is drought-tolerant once established, supports pollinators and wildlife, and offers year-round interest. Best planted in groups to ensure both male and female plants are present for berry production.