Japanese Holly is abundantly planted as an ornamental in North Carolina, but rarely escapes from cultivation. It is similar to the native Yaupon (Ilex vomitoria), but with smaller, slightly convex leaves that are a very dark green when mature. The fruits are black (red in Yaupon).

Greensboro, Guilford Co., NC 5/15/10.

Sometimes called Box-leaved Holly, since the leaves and form resemble those of boxwoods (Buxus spp.).

Greensboro, Guilford Co., NC 5/15/10.

Detail of staminate (male) flowers.

Greensboro, Guilford Co., NC 5/15/10.