Description
Winterberry Holly is a deciduous holly shrub with excellent, bright scarlet winter-persistent fruit, unless eaten by birds, especially robins. Native to the eastern half of the US.
Most holly are native to swampy places but do well in light to medium moist loam. They grow well in sun or partial shade.
The edges of the leaves of winterberry are smooth, unlike many of the sharp-tooth edges of other hollies. The berries remind me of bubblegum.
Winterberry Holly is dioecious, meaning there are both male and female plants. Jim Dandy holly is a male pollinator.
Scientific Name: Ilex verticillata
Zone: 3-9 Find Your Growing Zone
Mature Height: 6-12 ft
Mature Width: 6-12 ft
Fruit: Showy red berries
Flowers: Insignificant, on new growth
Bloom Time: April-July
Growth Rate: Medium
Soil: High organic matter, does well in moist soil
Drought Tolerance: Poor
Flood Tolerance: Good
Sun Requirements: Sun or part-shade
Fall Color: Red, burgundy
Wildlife Value: Great food resource for birds and flowers attract pollinators and butterflies
