Yaupon Holly

Ilex vomitoria

Illustration: Yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria) evergreen leaves and red berries

Identification: Evergreen holly with small oval leaves (no spines) and red berries in winter. The only native North American plant containing caffeine.

Dangerous look-alikes: Dahoon holly (Ilex cassine) — similar and also used; no dangerous confusion. Do NOT confuse with other evergreens — confirm small spineless evergreen leaves + red berries. Berries are for birds, not people.

Edible parts: Leaves (for caffeinated tea).

Season and habitat: Year-round; leaves best in cooler months. Coastal plain woods, dunes.

Preparation: Roast leaves lightly, then steep — 'yaupon tea' or 'cassina,' the Native American black drink (minus the ritual purging). Smooth caffeine lift.

Notes: The Latin name vomitoria slanders it — it came from the ceremonial purging ritual, not the plant.