Overview

Gallberry holly, Ilex glabra, is a Florida-native evergreen shrub with fine glossy foliage, small spring flowers, and black berries on pollinated female plants.

Mature Size and Habit

Typical plants grow about 5 to 10 feet tall and 5 to 8 feet wide, with an upright-rounded habit that can spread by suckers.

Best Landscape Uses

Use in native gardens, informal hedges, rain-garden edges, mass plantings, and moist foundation beds.

Sunlight

Full sun to partial sun is suitable. More sun generally supports denser growth and heavier flowering, while afternoon shade can reduce stress in dry inland sites.

Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation

Gallberry prefers acidic soil and consistent moisture but tolerates periodic wetness and short dry spells once established.

Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida

Fall through early spring is preferred for easy establishment.

Pruning and Maintenance

Prune selectively in late winter or after flowering to remove weak wood and encourage fullness. Repeated shearing can expose bare lower stems.

Wildlife Value

Spring flowers support bees and other pollinators, while female plants provide persistent black fruit eaten by birds. Dense evergreen branches add shelter.

Cold and Heat Sensitivity

This native is well adapted to Central Florida heat, humidity, and normal winter temperatures.

Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings

Holly berries are wildlife food but should not be eaten by people or pets because they can cause gastrointestinal distress.

Invasive Concerns

Gallberry is native to Florida and is not invasive.

Helpful Resources

See the NC State Extension gallberry profile for verified native range, size, soil, pollination, fruit, and landscape information.