The American Holly (Ilex opaca) also called the White Holly or Christmas Holly, is the most popular holly. It is a small evergreen tree or shrub with thick, smooth, dark green, spiny leaves that are a yellowish green underneath. The American Holly keeps its foliage from top to bottom for the life of the tree and can easily grow to a height of 50' with a 35' spread. Great for a privacy hedge and noise barrier, but its natural pyramidal shape also makes it a perfect ornamental tree for any yard. Bundles of small white flowers appear from April to June and are a beautiful contrast to the deep shiny foliage. The dazzling deep red berries grow from September to November and stay throughout the winter. The American Holly needs minimal watering and can grow in nearly any soil including hard clay. USDA ZONES: Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9.