Sometimes called Sweet Gallberry, this evergreen large shrub or small tree is common in wet areas in the Coastal Plain. Similar to Inkberry (I. glabra), with smooth coriaceous (leathery), evergreen leaves and black berries. The fruits are a little larger than those of Inkberry and are normally squashed-looking -- broader than they are long -- instead of globose.

Bladen Co., NC 10/7/06.

The leaves are larger and broader than those of Inkberry, with a few bristle-tipped teeth (not crenate like Inkberry or spiny like American Holly).

Moore Co., NC 3/14/07.

Leaf detail.

Moore Co., NC 3/14/07.

The bark is smooth, with scattered lenticels (corky projections).

Bladen Co., NC 10/7/06.

Bark of a slightly larger tree.

Moore Co., NC 3/14/07.