Ilex amelanchier, commonly known as Sarvis Holly, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the understory of moist, acidic forests and along the edges of swamps and bogs in the Southeastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 12-20 feet (3.6-6 meters) and a width of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters). Sarvis Holly has a dense, rounded form with dark green, glossy leaves. The inconspicuous white flowers bloom in the spring, followed by dull red drupes that appear in October to November and may persist into spring, providing winter interest and food for birds.

Sarvis Holly is valued for its evergreen foliage and the winter berries that add color to the garden when few other plants have fruit. It is suitable for use as a specimen plant, in mixed shrub borders, or as a natural hedge. While it can adapt to full sun or part shade, Sarvis Holly thrives best in slightly shaded conditions that mimic its natural understory habitat. It requires acidic soil with good drainage and consistent moisture. Although it is not commonly found in cultivation due to its rarity, it can be a unique addition to native plant gardens and conservation landscapes. Care should be taken to source plants ethically due to its rarity in the wild.CC BY-SA 4.0