Ilex × attenuata Savannah (Savannah Holly)

A female selection of the naturally occurring hybrid between Ilex cassine and Ilex opaca, this cultivar was discovered in Savannah, Georgia. It develops into an evergreen tree with a narrow, columnar to open pyramidal crown. Broad, pale green leaves have sparse spines and a thin, papery texture. Small greenish white flowers appear in spring. After pollination by a nearby compatible male holly, abundant red fruits mature in autumn and persist through winter. This cultivar is grown as a specimen or screen and favors acidic, freely draining soil. Its berries attract birds but are mildly poisonous to people. Photographed in Florida.