Ilex glabra (L.) Gray

Ink-berry

Habitat: Low sandy or peaty soils. [Coastal non-tidal wetland (non-forested, wetland)]

Range: Florida to Louisiana, north to Massachusetts. Disjunct populations in Maine and Nova Scotia.

Aids to Identification: This shrub, a member of the Holly family, can be distinguished by several characteristics: leathery, evergreen leaves that are punctate on the underside; twigs that are ashy with tiny hairs; flowers on long peduncles (stalks); black fruits which are firm and not pulpy.

Ecological characteristics: The single known occurrence of this rare plant in Maine grows around the perimeter of a coastal sphagnum bog.

Phenology: Flowers late June - August.

Family: Aquifoliaceae

Synonyms: None noted.

Known Distribution in Maine: This rare plant has been documented from a total of 1 town(s) in the following county(ies): Knox.

Reason(s) for rarity: Disjunct from principal range.

Conservation considerations: Maintain hydrologic integrity of its bog habitat.