Etymology
Genus comes from the Latin name for holm oak, Quercus ilex, in reference to the foliage similarities (holm oak and many of the shrubs in the genus Ilex have evergreen leaves). ‘Glabra’ means smooth and refers to the smooth margins of the leaves (except for a few notches near the tips).
Native Habitat
Throughout its range, Inkberry thrives in a wide range of habitats, including rocky barrens, bogs, swamps, dense spruce forests, wet woodlands of coastal plains, and even dry hillsides. It is commonly found in sandy to peaty, acidic soils. It is only known from a single occurrence in Maine where it grows near the perimeter of a coastal sphagnum bog.
Garden Uses
Beautiful evergreen foliage, distinct dark fruits, and ability to grow in a wide range of conditions makes this a popular garden choice. Excellent in foundation plantings, shrub borders, and naturalized areas. Its spreading habit makes it appropriate for massing, hedges, and erosion control. Its tolerance for wet soil makes it a great choice for rain gardens or along the edges of streams and ponds. The plant tolerates heavy pruning, and rejuvenating old plants is recommended. Remove root suckers regularly if colonial spread is not desired. Inkberry has no serious disease and insect problems. To produce berries, both a male and female plant are required. The popularity of this plant has increased recently. Cultivars have been developed with more compact growth forms which are often suggested as a substitute for boxwood in northern gardens or in places where boxwood blight is common.
Overview
Inkberry is a mound-shaped, evergreen shrub that can grow 5 to 8 feet tall and wide (frequently below 5' tall and wide in Maine), becoming more open as it matures. Its glossy, leathery, lance-shaped leaves range from dark to light green throughout the year and have subtle teeth near the tips. Inkberry produces subtle flowers followed by black fruits that persist into the winter. This dioecious species requires both male and female plants to produce berries, with the male blooming at the same time as the female. Inkberries are easy to grow in a variety of soils, thriving in average to wet, acidic soils in full sun to partial shade. While they prefer rich, consistently moist soils, they can tolerate drier conditions and occasional flooding. They adapt well to both heavy clay and sandy soils and are resistant to soil compaction, pollution, and moderately salt-tolerant. Inkberries are also known for their ability to withstand both full sun and shaded areas.
Spread
Above ground spread ranges from 5 to 8 feet wide, frequently less than 5 feet wide in Maine. Extensive rhizomes often form colonies. Remove root suckers regularly if colonial spread is not desired.
Leaves and Stems
Leaves are alternate, simple, evergreen, leathery, obovate to elliptic, pointed at the tip, tapering to the base, smooth, usually with a few subtle teeth in the upper half, sometimes reddish and dotted on the lower surface, shiny green on the upper surface, up to 2 inches long, up to 3/4 inch wide. Leaf stalks hairy, up to 1/3 inch long.
Flowers
Male and female flowers are borne on separate plants. Male flowers 3-7 in a cluster in the axils of the leaves; female flowers 1-3 in the axils of the leaves, on stalks up to 1/2 inch long.
Fruit/Seed
Berry-like drupes transition from pale green to red, eventually ripening to black in the fall. Spherical, up to 1/4 inch in diameter, containing 5-8 nutlets. Although technically drupes, the fruit are commonly referred to as berries. To produce berries, both a male and female plant are needed. Fruits mature in early fall and persist throughout winter to early spring unless consumed by local bird populations.
Wildlife Associates
Inkberries provide significant wildlife value. Their nectar-rich flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including specialist bees. The plant also serves as a host for the caterpillars of Henry’s Elfin butterfly. Like many hollies, its fruit often remains on the shrub into late winter, providing a vital food source when other options are scarce. Numerous birds and small mammals, such as turkeys and bobwhite quail, depend on this winter food supply. Additionally, the dense foliage offers excellent shelter and cover for various creatures during the colder months.
Propagation
Ilex seeds exhibit dormancy and are slow to germinate. Collect fruit in fall. Crush pulp and wash away. Seeds which float should be throw away as they are not viable. Some benefit may be obtained from 30-60 days treatment at 68-86 degrees followed by 60-90 days of 41 degrees. Root cuttings any time of year.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Inkberries have a long history of medicinal use, with applications for treating fevers, colds, respiratory issues, and skin conditions. Dried or roasted leaves were first used by Native Americans to make a popular black "tea", giving the plant the common name Appalachian Tea (though this is a misnomer, as it is a coastal plain species). Inkberry was also used to create decorative wreaths, garlands, and other items for celebrations and rituals. Note: All Ilex species can be toxic if ingested, with sensitivity varying by age, weight, and individual factors. Children are especially at risk due to their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can differ based on the plant's growth stage, parts, and season, and plants can absorb harmful substances like herbicides and pollutants."
Garden Location
Barn Garden, Residential Garden, Teaching Garden (see garden map)
Anecdotal Information
Nursery plants are often pruned into compact mounds. It takes several years for them to achieve a more natural form in the garden.
Sources
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Plant Profile by Rachel Emus