Winterberry (Ilex verticillata)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Perennial

Winterberry
Ilex verticillata

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Winterberry fruit
Winterberry fruit
 
Features
Bright red fruit on female plants; autumn color is pale yellow. 
 
Culture
Full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained soil is best, but tolerates wet sites; tolerates alkaline soil. 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Afterglow'- 10 feet tall, orange to orange red fruit, good cold hardiness, (female).
  • 'Jim Dandy'- 10 feet tall, (male).
  • 'Red Sprite'- 3-5 feet tall, large, bright red fruit (female).
  • 'Southern Gentleman' - Hardy to zone 3, (male).
  • 'Spriber' ('Berry Nice')- 6-8 feet tall, outstanding display of bright red fruit (female).
  • 'Winter Gold'- 7 feet tall, yellow fruit (female).
  • 'Winter Red'- 9 feet tall, bright red fruits are abundant and persistent.
 
 
Mature Height
6-9 Feet
 
Size
Medium
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 9 
 
Bloom Color
 
 
Bloom Season
-
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
Wet
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


 
Additional Notes
All species of Ilex have male and female flowers on separate plants. Fruit will be produced only if a male plant is available to pollinate the females. Leaves of this species will fall off in autumn.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic