Trees, Shrubs and Conifers: Ilex verticillata cultivars, 1 by

wrote:
I just got in for the day and decided to take a look at one of my favorite subjects. And I'm glad to see the comments above. I do want to remember this is Scott's thread, and I'm eternally grateful for his first picture: That's exactly the plant I was looking for- Ilex verticillata. While I was exploring in the 'swamp' a lot of plants caught my attention; especially the shrubby tree that at first glance "looked like" Ilex verticillata (the 2nd picture I posted). I took that picture yesterday (bottom view in rcn's post).

ViburnumValley: Yes I noticed the differences Saturday, and saw more when I went back late Sunday afternoon. I don't know if I saw as many as you, but it is (was) apparent to me immediately it was not the same plant: (1) They are much taller shrubs- 8-12', (2) The leaves are relatively elongated, glossy & less serrated, (3) Leaves are more directly opposite on the twig, (4) The branches are more spreading, heavily loaded with berries, and grow in a 'vase-like' spray and even hang parallel or downward to the soil. (5) The leaves of Ilex verticillata are more akin to the shape & texture of an apple leaf, or at least that's my first impression. (6) Although the camera shows bright red berries on both, the Unknown Plant's berries to the naked eye appeared to have a more 'orange' hue. Late afternoon sun didn't help.

"You obviously are no slouch at gardening. You also have the gumption to trek out into the swamps to indulge in the wildness therein." Compliments will get you everywhere! Thank you: I sometimes think I was born in the woods, since I spend every possible hour I can there, and have made it a part of my life since childhood- and now it seems natural for me to be at 'home' roughing it. I once spent two weeks in Upper MI and Canada on vacation: When I got home I had collected a truck-load of baby evergreens, and today they are all growing in my landscape.

Scott: It's definitely not Tartarian Honeysuckle- That grows here too, and I've known it forever since the Cardinals love it for nesting. The berries are essentially the same except for a slight color variation. If I get a chance on Tuesday I'll collect some samples, and do some more pictures of berries, twigs & leaves.

rcn48: Thanks for fixing the pics: You saved me some time in Photoshop.

I am attaching one more picture of the Unknown (wide angle) with the hope of possibly giving you all a better idea of how it looks in its habitat. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this mystery. Please note the Cat Tails in left foreground.