Large Gallberry
Ilex coriacea
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Pl. 1F32 — Ilex coriacea
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IOverview
Overview
Large Gallberry (Ilex coriacea) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States, ranging from Virginia to Texas and as far south as Florida. Known for its edible fruit, this plant thrives in moist soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.7, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers partial sun to full sun exposure and can grow up to 3 meters tall. The plant is valued for its fruit, which provides sustenance in the region where it grows naturally. Its ability to tolerate a range of conditions makes Large Gallberry an interesting addition to gardens and landscapes in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Large Gallberry?
Large Gallberry (Ilex coriacea) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States, ranging from Virginia to Texas and as far south as Florida. Known for its edible fruit, this plant thrives in moist soils with a pH between 5.
What is Large Gallberry used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Large Gallberry
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Ilex coriacea has been traditionally used in Native American medicine for digestive issues. A tea made from the leaves and bark may help soothe an upset stomach.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves tannins which can have astringent properties, helping to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Ilex coriacea, like other Ilex species, has been traditionally used in Native American medicine for immune support. A decoction of the leaves and bark may help bolster the body's defenses against common ailments.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves polyphenols such as flavonoids which have antioxidant properties that can enhance immune function.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Large Gallberry support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Large Gallberry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 3 meters tall. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. The fruit is edible but not commonly used for culinary purposes. Soil pH should be maintained between 5.5 and 6.7 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
3.0 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–6.7
For first-time growers
How to grow Large Gallberry for the first time
8steps
Start with Large Gallberry as a simple, low-maintenance shrub for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A Large Gallberry sapling or seeds, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.5 and 6.7; prepare containers if needed, ensuring they have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the ground or start seeds indoors in late winter for outdoor planting later.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun, regular watering, and mulch to retain moisture. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth; harvest fruit when ripe for use in jams or decorations.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, and not providing enough mulch are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Large Gallberry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the berries are consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 9 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Louisiana
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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