Ilex verticillata: Winterberry Holly with Persistent Red Berries

Ilex verticillata (winterberry) is a suckering shrub or small tree with toothed, pointy, bright green leaves. Bears white flowers in spring followed by spherical dark red to scarlet berries persisting through winter. Some fruit ripens to yellow or orange.

Care

Adaptable to wet soil conditions; likes full sun to partial shade. Use as specimen or in woodland garden. Plant or transplant in spring. Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Hollies are dioecious, so male plants needed for fruit. Dwarf male cultivars available.

Propagation

Semi-ripe cuttings in summer or early autumn.

Problems

Young shoots susceptible to aphids. Phytophthora root rot sometimes occurs.

Overview

• Height: 10–15 ft.
• Spread: 10–15 ft.
• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Moisture: Medium Moisture
• Characteristics: Attracts Song Birds, Showy Foliage, Showy Fruit
• Bloom Time: Spring
• Flower Color: White
• Foliage Color: Evergreen
• Uses: Specimen Plant/Focal Point
• Style: Woodland Garden
• Seasonal Interest: Spring Interest
• Type: Shrubs