Tag: Ilex

The holly genus, *Ilex*, is comprised of hundreds of species, but only a small number of them naturally produce caffeine. So, does holly have caffeine? The answer depends entirely on the specific plant, with common ornamental varieties like English holly being very different from caffeinated types.

Native to the southeastern United States, yaupon holly is North America's only naturally caffeinated plant, a botanical cousin to the celebrated South American yerba mate. Both provide a gentle energy boost and are rich in antioxidants, but their differences in flavor, tannins, and cultural history set them apart.