Scientific Name: Ilex cassine Dahoon Holly is a striking Florida-native tree known for its upright form, glossy evergreen leaves, and clusters of bright red berries that persist into winter. A favorite of birds and pollinators, it brings seasonal interest and vital wildlife support to the landscape. This adaptable holly thrives in full sun to partial shade and performs well in wet or seasonally moist soils, making it perfect for rain gardens, retention areas, and low-lying parts of the yard. Its narrow profile also makes it a great choice for privacy screening or natural borders. Why plant Dahoon Holly in Central Florida? Dahoon Holly is native to Central Florida’s wetlands and adapts beautifully to both naturalistic and residential landscapes. It offers year-round structure, wildlife value, and a pop of winter color—all with minimal maintenance. It’s a great native alternative to non-native ornamental trees.