Adopted May 1, 1939, the American Holly ( Ilex opaca Aiton ) is regarded as one of Delaware's most important forest trees. Often called Christmas holly or evergreen holly, the tree has dark, thorny-leaved foliage and red berries. In Delaware, the tree can reach a maximum of 60 feet in height and a trunk diameter of 20 inches. (Delaware Code: Title 29, Chapter 3, Article 305).
The American holly is the First State's official state tree because they were the biggest purveyor of Christmas wreathes in the 1920s and the 1930s. This declined drastically starting in the 1950s when plastic wreaths gained popularity.
FUN FACT: Did you know that only female holly trees actually produce the little red berries?
Learn more about the American Holly and how to handle them for DIY holiday decorations from the University of Delaware!
Learn more about Delaware and find out other cool facts about the First State, such as the official state dessert (Peach Pie) or the official state dog (rescue dogs)!
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