Ilex opaca, or American holly is a non-native to Ontario, and is a slow-growing evergreen tree that offers fragrant berries on female plants. Native to eastern and south-central United States, ranging from coastal Massachusetts south to central Florida, and west to southeastern Missouri and eastern Texas. Deer-resistant and tolerant of road salt, it thrives in acidic soils with part shade but can suffer in alkaline soils. While it�s best suited for larger landscapes due to its size, it provides valuable nectar for pollinators, and is an attractive addition to your landscape. Both male and female trees are needed for fruit production.