Inkberry is a shrubby holly that favors sandy soil and grows best at moist and sunny spots in the Alper Preserve. Inkberry can spread from roots and form dense colonies. The thickets are usually less than 10 ft tall. The lustrous smallish leaves remain green throughout the year (but may turn yellow-green after frigid weather). The purplish-black shiny berries are about the size of blueberries. The holly provides food and wind shelter to small birds and animals in winter. Inkberry is one of those few native shrubs that are available at nurseries. This attractive evergreen shrub will naturally keep a nice mounding shape as long as there is enough light.

June 14

October 31