Gallberry

Explore the story and character of this honey.

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Gallberry shrubs growing in Florida pine flatwoods beside a close view of small white blossoms and a visiting honey bee

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Gallberry honey comes from the small white flowers of gallberry, an evergreen holly also known as inkberry.

Flavor and Character

Gallberry honey is commonly described as light amber, smooth, aromatic, and mild to moderately flavored. It has a full body and a clean floral sweetness that is noticeable without becoming overpowering.

Its balanced character makes it an easy table honey for biscuits, toast, tea, and yogurt. It also works well in baking because its flavor complements other ingredients instead of covering them.

About Gallberry

What Makes Gallberry Special?

  • Gallberry, Ilex glabra, is native throughout Florida. It is not an invasive species there.
  • It is a colonial evergreen shrub that commonly grows three to six feet tall and can form dense thickets through underground runners.
  • Gallberry is common in Florida flatwoods, wetlands, coastal swales, bogs, and other moist habitats.
  • Its small white flowers appear during spring and attract honey bees and other pollinators.
  • The plant produces black berries that provide food for birds and other wildlife, but the berries are not considered edible for people.
  • Male and female flowers grow on separate plants, so both are needed for the female plants to produce berries.
  • Gallberry is a major nectar source for honey bees in northern and western Florida.
  • Gallberry honey is known for crystallizing slowly, helping it remain smooth and liquid longer than many common honeys.