Possumhaw, or Deciduous Holly, is a fairly common small understory tree, most often found in bottomlands.

Leaves are clustered on short spurs. Clusters of tiny white flowers appear in April-May.

Leaves are usually obovate (egg-shaped, widest above the middle) to spathulate (spoon-shaped) and crenate (with blunt teeth).

The leaves and fruits are usually clustered on short spur branches.

Granville Co., NC 6/4/05.

The bright red drupes on female plants last through the winter.

Durham Co., NC 12/4/05.

The bark has warty lenticels.