Holly

American Holly produces the whitest wood of any American tree. The tree grows to heights of up to 60 ft. and can be as large as 2-3 ft. in diameter. Generally, Holly tends to be a rather bushy shrub that is 15-25 ft. high and has numerous branches having the appearance of a gum drop if growing in the open. Holly is primarily used for its branches to make wreaths and sprays. Annually there are over 10,000 people employed in cutting and gathering Holly branches for manufacturers. The fruit is consumed by wild turkeys, deer, and other birds. Wood uses include piano keys, instrument parts, inlay, intarsia, and small parts on furniture. Lumber must be dried quickly to remain white but dried slowly enough that the boards do not check and twist.
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