Mountain Holly
Nemopanthus mucronatus
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Pl. AD2B — Nemopanthus mucronatus
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IOverview
Overview
Mountain Holly (Nemopanthus mucronatus) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to northeastern and north-central United States, ranging from Connecticut to Wisconsin and south to West Virginia. Known for its ornamental value and edible fruit, this plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils that are light, medium, or heavy (clay). It prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and is recognized by its distinctive evergreen leaves, which remain green even during winter. Mountain Holly's fruits are edible and provide a valuable food source for wildlife.
Quick answers
What is Mountain Holly?
Mountain Holly (Nemopanthus mucronatus) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to northeastern and north-central United States, ranging from Connecticut to Wisconsin and south to West Virginia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mountain Holly thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. This shrub/tree can reach heights of 3 meters and is native to areas like Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, and other northeastern states. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. Enjoy its edible fruit while maintaining the right growing conditions.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub, Tree
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mountain Holly for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Mountain Holly to experience growing a shrub from scratch.
- 1
What you'll need
Mountain Holly saplings, garden gloves, spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and workable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.0-7.0; mix in compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings into prepared holes, ensuring roots are spread out.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy; mulch around the base for insulation.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water during dry spells and prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth; remove any dead or damaged branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Mountain Holly can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the specific recipes as details on preparation methods are not provided.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
24 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
24 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 24 native
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New York, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Prince Edward I., Québec, Rhode I., Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Masachusettes, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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