Possum Haw can have red, yellow or orange fruit. This red-fruited specimen is on display at the University of Tennessee Gardens on Neyland Drive in Knoxville. >>>download photo

Submitted by Dr. Susan Hamilton


Possum Haw (Ilex decidua) is a showy winter shrub. A native, deciduous plant, Possum Haw drops all of its foliage in the fall. During the winter months it boasts loads of berries that are attractive in the landscape and provide a buffet for opossums, birds and other animals.

Growing Conditions:

Possum Haw is easily grown in full sun to part shade. Adaptable to both light and heavy soils, it prefers moist, acidic, organic soils. Plants are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants. Be sure to plant both types of plants to have good production of berries.

Growth Habit:

Possum Haw is an upright shrub growing to heights between 7 feet and 15 feet and spreading across 3 feet to 9 feet. Foliage is a glossy, dark green in the summer, turning yellow in the fall. Inconspicuous white flowers are produced in the spring. These lead to yellow, orange or red berries (depending on the plant's variety). The berries are showy from September through April. Birds, deer and a variety of small mammals are attracted to them. Branches are light-gray in color, accentuating the bright berries. Growers should prune Possum Haw to the desired shape in early spring just before new growth begins.

Landscape Use:

Possum Haw is effective when planted as a single specimen, in groups or as a hedge. The shrub can be grown in low spots or along ponds or streams with somewhat wet soil conditions. It makes a great selection for a native plant garden or for those desiring to bring "winter interest" to their landscape. Select cultivars include:

• "Byers Golden" – an excellent yellow-fruited form
• "Council Fire" – an excellent orange-fruited form
• "Sundance" – a dwarf selection with orange-red fruit
• "Warren's Red" – a popular red-fruited form known for its heavy fruit
  production and upright branching

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Submitted by Dr. Susan Hamilton, associate professor of plant sciences and director of the University of Tennessee Gardens. The UT Gardens are located on Neyland Drive in Knoxville. They are free and open to the public seven days a week during daylight hours.

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Contact:

Dr. Susan Hamilton, 865-974-7324
Patricia McDaniels, 865-974-7141