Yaupon Holly Tree

...of Steven F. Austin State Park

This native evergreen holly is found in the southern areas of the park, produces beautiful red berries in the winter, and is drought tolerant. The leaves contain caffeine and were used extensively by Native Americans to provide a very good tasting tea. Deer like to browse the leaves and birds enjoy the berries, although the berries are toxic to people. This tree is wildly sold in several cultivated varieties and used for landscaping. The scientific name is Ilex vomitoric, and it can cause digestive distress if brewed too strong.