Yaupon Holly,

Ilex vomitoria

Physical Characteristics

Ilex vomitoria is an evergreen Shrub growing to 6 m (19ft 8in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from October to December. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - Virginia to Florida, west to Texas and Arkansas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment Tea A mildly stimulating beverage containing caffeine is made from the dried and roasted leaves[43, 171, 183]. The tea is stimulating and intoxicating[161]. The leaves are first steeped in cold and then in boiling water[183]. They are also used to flavour ice cream and soft drinks[183].

Medicinal Uses

Emetic A decoction of the leaves is emetic[4, 11, 171]. The plant was used ritually by several N. American Indian tribes. The leaves were toasted over a fire and then boiled for several hours. The resulting thick black liquid was then drunk and this was followed by immediate vomiting[213]. This was often used a a purification rite prior to hunting[213].

Known Hazards

Although no specific reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, the fruits of at least some members of this genus contain saponins and are slightly toxic. They can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and stupor if eaten in quantity[274]. The fruit is poisonous[177].