Sarvis Holly

Ilex amelanchier

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Aquifoliaceae
Genus:
Ilex
Species:
Ilex amelanchier
USDA Symbol:
ILAM2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub , Tree
Height:
800 cm
Light Requirements:
Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
apr,may
Bloom Colors:
white
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★★☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)
Pollen Specialist Bee Keystone:
★☆☆☆☆ Native pollen specialist bee species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Fall Color:
red

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers woodland edges and forest understories

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
30–90 days
Notes:
Seeds require cold stratification for 60-90 days to break dormancy.

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).; then Cold-moist stratification for 60 days.

Source: Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Expose to fluctuating outdoor winter temps incl. freezing for 3 months. Increase light/temp in spring.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society