Yaupon (Ilex vomitoria)
Yaupon is a small, evergreen tree that may grow 10 to 20 feet tall. The leaves are alternate with a dentate margin. The bark is thin, smooth, and light gray. As the tree ages, the bark might become a bit scaly. In spring, small, greenish white male flowers mature in clusters. Small, yellow-green, solitary female flowers mature at the same time. Female specimens produce dark red drupes that mature in late fall and early winter.
WildlifeUsed as winter cover. Host plant for Henry's Elfin butterfly. Butterflies nectar at blooms. Fruits are eaten by songbirds and small mammals.
| Plant Type |
Tree 10-30 feet |
| Leaf Type |
Evergreen |
| Deer Resistance |
High |
| Regions |
Coastal Plain |
| Light |
Full Sun, Partial Sun/Shade, Full Shade |
| Soil |
Wet, Moist, Dry |
| Bloom Times |
Early Spring, Spring |
| Seed Times |
Winter |
| Wildlife Value |
Winter Cover, Fleshy Fruit, Butterfly/Insect Nectar, Butterfly Larvae Host |
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