Yaupon Holly

Yaupon holly is an upright, single- or multi-trunked shrub or small tree,
growing 12-35 ft. high but usually no taller than 25 ft. Yaupon is slow-
growing and can form thickets. It has small, shiny, dark green, evergreen
leaves. Female plants have red berries in winter. Tiny white flowers in
spring attract butterflies, and the plant is a larval host for the Henrys Elfin
butterfly.

Planting Sites: Yaupon is not picky. It will grow in both well- and poorly-drained sand, loam, clay, gravel, or
limestone soils. It can grow in shade, dappled shade, part shade, or full sun. A half day or more of sun will
encourage the best berry production.

Planting Instructions: Space plants 12’– 15’ apart. Dig hole slightly larger than, but the same depth as the nursery
container. Carefully remove plant from container and gently loosen any compacted soil around the root ball.
Plant at the same depth as the soil in the container. Add 2 to 3 inches of mulch.

Watering Instructions: If planting in spring, water well after planting, using root stimulator according to
directions. For at least 3 months, water deeply every 7-10 days to promote deep roots that will withstand drought.
May skip a watering after a rainfall of ½” to 1”. Once established, yaupon holly is very drought-tolerant.

Comments: Birds usually eat the berries only in late winter after several freezes and thaws. If no other
yaupons are in your area, you will need to plant a male tree if you want berries. Yaupon can be hedged if desired.
Cultivar “Pride of Houston” has heavy berry production.

Planting and care instructions provided by the Lindheimer Chapters of the
Native Plant Society of Texas.