Dahoon holly (Ilex cassine var. cassine) is a small tree that grows in moist, freshwater spots at the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area (ORCA) on both the north and south side of Oslo Road. It shown below at south ORCA in the fringe of freshwater wetland plants that transition from the scrubby pine flatwoods and hammock areas to the estuarine wetlands.
Dahoon hollies can grow to be 30+ or taller where plenty of moisture is available. They tend to be smaller in less moist landscape settings. Unless pruned to be a hedge, they are far taller than broad. Their bark is whitish and often festooned with lots of lichens …
Their alternate leaves are glossy dark green above and paler below. They often, but not always, have tiny teeth toward the tip of the leaves that can aid in ID …
All hollies are dioecious. Female and male flowers are borne on different plants. Flowering occurs throughout the year peaking in the spring. The whitish flowers are fairly inconspicuous and were photographed below this fall …
Only female plants will bear red berries that are consumed by birds and other small mammals and are beloved by people for festive holiday decoration …
Enjoy the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area 