Quailberry, Christmasberry

Crossopetalum ilicifolium (Poir.) Kuntze

cross-oh-PET-ah-lum  ill-iss-ah-FOAL-ee-um

Celastraceae

Explanation of name:  The generic name means fringed petals. Ilicifolium  means holly-like leaves.

Natural range:   Caribbean, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties Florida.  Natural on limestone in pine rocklands.

Recognition:   Low-lying sprawling shrub with coarsely toothed, spine-bearing “holly” leaves and red fruits.  Landscape uses:   Native groundcover or rock garden species resembling a ground-hugging holly.  The leaves have character and the red fruits resemble holly berries. Adapted to poor soils, lime rock, and low water.  Probably prefers alkaline soils.  Berries (drupes) feed wildlife.

Internet sources: http://www.plantcreations.com/ground_covers.htm

http://www.regionalconservation.org/beta/nfyn/plantdetail.asp?tx=Crosilic