Description
- Deciduous shrub
- Height: 3 to 15 feet
- Width: 3 to 15 feet
- Oval or rounded form
- Dark green 2- to 3-inch leaves
- Clusters of small, white flowers in early to mid-summer
- Red, orange, or yellow fruit in fall and winter
- Grows slowly and may spread by suckering
How tall do winterberry trees grow?
Winterberry can grow 3′-12′ tall and wide depending on the variety and environmental conditions. Is Winterberry Evergreen or Deciduous? Unlike most hollies seen in northern gardens, Winterberry (Ilex Verticillata) is a deciduous shrub.
What does winterberry look like in the wild?
Winterberry is a deciduous tree that may grow 10 to 15 feet tall, but it often occurs in the wild as a shrub. The leaves are alternate with a sharply toothed margin and hairy underside. The bark is thin, smooth, and gray-brown. In spring, stalked, yellow-green flowers mature in clusters.
What are the different types of winterberry trees?
*Ilex Verticillata ‘Red Sprite’ – One of the more common varieties, and also one of the more compact. Typically grows 3-5 feet and has a very dense branching habit. * lex Verticillata ‘Winter Red’- Probably the most popular Winterberry.
Is winterberry dioecious?
Winterberry is a dioecious species, meaning female flowers and male flowers grow on separate plants. To get berries on a female plant, a male plant must be near. One male plant will pollinate about 20 female plants to produce fruit when planted within 40 feet of each other. Beyond 40 feet, one male will pollinate about four to five female plants.
Are winterberry fast growing?
A slow-growing shrub with a rounded upright growth habit, winterberry typically grows 3 to 15 feet tall and readily suckers and spreads to form large thickets. It is generally planted in late summer to early fall, though spring planting is usually successful, as well.
Where is the best place to plant winterberry?
In its native setting, winterberry can be found in moist bogs and woodlands. Accordingly, it prefers moist, acidic soils and partial shade to full sun. In a garden setting, though, this plant can adapt to most growing conditions and it is hardy in US Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8.
Is winterberry a bush or tree?
Winterberry is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It is multi-stemmed and tends to sucker readily, forming large clumps.
How does winterberry spread?
In wet sites, it can sucker to form a dense spreading thicket. In drier soil, it tends to form a tighter clump. Winterberry holly isn't really grown for its flowers, though it does bloom. It has very small, inconspicuous white flowers, with male flowers and female flowers found in different individual plants.
How fast does winterberry spread?
Quick Reference Growing GuidePlant Type:Woody ornamental shrubWhite/emerald green (noted for berries)Spread:6-15 feet, depending on varietyAquifoliaceaeTime to Maturity:2-3 yearsIlexWater Needs:ModerateverticillataCommon Pests:Leaf miners, scale, spider mitesAnthracnose, leaf spot, powdery mildew7 more rows•Nov 16, 2020
Do deer eat winterberry bushes?
The leaves and stems are not a preferred food for white-tailed deer, but they will browse them in winter, as will rabbits. The flowers of the winterberry shrub provide nectar for butterflies.
What does winterberry look like in summer?
The leaves are dark green in the summer, turning yellow in autumn, and falling off entirely by October. Even if you are already growing winterberry holly, you'll have to look closely to see the small, greenish flowers that appear in spring.
Is winterberry poisonous to dogs?
Winterberry poisoning affects dogs, cats, and horses. The berries and leaves of this plant are toxic, though typically at a milder level than other similar plants. Protect yourself and your pet.
Do birds eat winterberry berries?
A holly that loses its leaves in the fall, winterberry is loved by humans and birds alike for the brilliant red berries that light up the winter landscape. Sure, cut some branches for decoration, but leave most for the birds that rely on them. Winterberry needs a male planted nearby for the female to produce berries.
Should winterberry be pruned?
It is a deciduous shrub, and it needs thinning annually. Thinning cuts will help prevent winterberry from becoming overcrowded. Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new, healthy growth and a uniform shape. Winterberry grows well in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5a to 8b.
How do you tell the difference between a male and female winterberry?
The flowers on female plants will have a raised green nub in the center, which turns into the berry; the flowers on male plants have recessed centers and a crown of fluffy yellow pollen-bearing anthers.
Do winterberry bushes lose their leaves in winter?
A holly has glossy evergreen leaves, right? No, not always. Ilex verticillata, Winterberry Holly, or Winterberry is our native, wetland holly that loses it leaves each autumn. This beautiful shrub is all the showier because its lack of winter leaves makes its berry display all the brighter.
What can I plant next to winterberry?
Perennial Companions Winterberry pairs well with perennials that like the same sunny or lightly shaded conditions with somewhat moist soil. A mixed planting of daffodils (Narcissus) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) can provide long periods of interest from spring through early to midsummer.
Do you need a male and female winterberry?
This means that to get a beautiful, berry-covered winterberry holly, you must plant both a male and a female. Male hollies will never develop berries, so they aren't very showy. Fortunately, you only need to plant one to pollinate up to five female plants.
How do you take care of a winter berry plant?
Plant the Winterberry in a large container with good drainage and place it somewhere where it can receive at least a few hours of direct sunlight every day. The Winterberry grows well in damp, neutral soil. Water it with frequency, but do not allow mud to form or water to accumulate on the surface.
How long does winterberry last?
Store Winterberry Berries Before Use Store them in the strainer in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. The strainer will allow air to circulate around the berries, which will help prevent mold and rot.
How Big Does Winterberry Get?
Winterberry can grow 3′-12′ tall and wide depending on the variety and environmental conditions.
What color are winterberries?
At a time of year when landscapes are looking bleak in colder climates, the bright red berries produced by Winterberries come to the rescue. Their color is even more pronounced with a snowy white backdrop.
Why are winterberry berries important?
In nature, Winterberry berries are a great source of food for birds and other wildlife. Since they can tolerate wet conditions they are an important part of wetland ecosystems.
What type of soil does Winterberry prefer?
Adapts to a lot of different soil conditions but does best in moist soils with a lot of organic matter. They also prefer acidic soils with a ph of 4.5-6.5. Winterberry also tolerates boggy, swamp like conditions, which is where it is most likely to be seen in nature.
Where is Winterberry native to?
Winterberry (Ilex Verticillata), is a deciduous, holly shrub, that is native to the North Eastern United States . It’s best known for its bright red berries that it forms in late fall/winter.
When do winter berries bloom?
Winterberry flowers from April-July. Its small greenish white flowers are relatively unimpressive, however pollinators will benefit from them. Only pollinated female flowers will produce the berry fruit.
Do winterberry shrubs have branches?
But before cut branches make it into floral arrangements and holiday decor, Winterberry shrubs are pretty inconspicuous. They spend most of the year blending into the landscape with their green foliage and upright branching habit.
How tall does a winterberry plant grow?
Size: As for its genetic variation, winterberry can range in heights from 3 feet to 15 feet. The width of the plant is also variable. Growth habit: In wet sites, winterberry normally suckers to form a dense spreading thicket.
How tall do winter red berries get?
It is a multi-stemmed; erect plant maturing at eight to nine feet in height.
What does a holly look like?
When most people think of holly, the image conjured up is one of bright red berries, glossy evergreen foliage and Christmas decorations. So when you talk to the average homeowner about deciduous holly ( Ilex verticillata) they look at you as if you were a moron. That's because many people consider deciduous holly an oxymoron.
What is Ilex verticillata?
Ilex verticillata is an amazing plant with a tremendous geographical range and a very diverse genetic expression.
How long do berries stay on a plant?
The berries remain on the plant until midwinter adding color to the landscape when it is most needed . To facilitate a good berry set it is advisable to purchase at least one male for every three to five female plants and to plant the male in close proximity.
Where is Ilex verticillata native to?
Range: The native population of Ilex verticillata stretches from Nova Scotia, south to Florida and west to Missouri.
Is winterberry easy to grow?
Problems: Winterberry is an easy-to-grow plant that has few serious insect or disease problems .
What is the winterberry?
The Winterberry is a host plant for Henry's Elfin butterfly and attracts other pollinators. Its fruits are eaten by over 48 species of birds, including cedar waxwings, and small mammals. Members of the genus Ilex support the following specialized bee: Colletes banksi. The foliage is food source for rabbits and deer.
When do sage berries bloom?
This plant has relatively inconspicuous greenish-white flowers that appear in the leaf axils in late spring. Blooms from April to June. Flowers, if properly pollinated, give way to a crop of bright red berries (1/4” diameter) in late summer to fall.
Why are berries called red berries?
The common name comes from the red berries that provide winter interest and sometimes persist into early spring (if the birds don't eat them). The berries appear just as the leaves are dropping in the fall. Berries have a terminal black "dot" instead of a "fly" like the Rosaceae berries.
What color is lenticel bark?
Grey to blackish with knobby lenticel bark, grey to grey-brown buds.
What color are the leaves on a sage tree?
The leaves are alternate with a sharply toothed margin and hairy underside. The bark is thin, smooth, and gray-brown. In spring, stalked, yellow-green flowers mature in clusters. Female specimens produce red-orange drupes that mature in the fall.
When do drupes ripen?
Bright red berry-like drupe on female plants; persists into winter. Fruits ripen from August to December. Fruits have a terminal black "dot" instead of a "fly" like the Rosaceae berries and are striking on naked branches.
Do berries have a dot?
Berries have a terminal black "dot" instead of a "fly" like the Rosaceae berries. To obtain beautiful berries the plants must be property cross-pollinated. Match blooming times with a male pollinator like 'Jim Dandy' or 'Southern Gentleman' by planting one male (per 10-20 females) within 50 feet of female plants.
When do winterberry holly leaves turn yellow?
The leaves are dark green in the summer, turning yellow in autumn, and falling off entirely by October. Even if you are already growing winterberry holly, you’ll have to look closely to see the small, greenish flowers that appear in spring.
How did Winterberry Holly get its name?
It gets its name from the Christmas-red berries that develop from fertilized flowers and stay on the bare bush stems much of the winter. For winterberry holly information, including notes on how to grow winterberry holly, read on.
Do you need a male or female winterberry holly?
Winterberry holly care does not require a male and a female plant, but you’ll need at least one of each in the vicinity if you want the signature red berries.
Can you grow winterberry holly?
If you are growing winterberry holly or thinking of doing so, you’ll be happy to learn that the shrub is easy to grow. Winterberry care is also simple if you plant the bush in an appropriate area.
What is the botanical name for Winterberry?
Scientific / Botanical Aspects. In botanical terms, the Winterberry belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family, the genus Ilex and the species Verticillata, hence its scientific (or botanical) name Ilex Verticillata (EYE-leks ver-tiss-ih-LAY-tuh). As with other Ilex’s, the Winterberry is a deciduous plant, which means it will shed its leaves annually once ...
What color are winter berries?
The Winterberry produces some beautiful white, or green, gold/yellow and white flowers around this time of year.
What is the best shrub for cottage gardens?
Most Ilex Verticillata owners agree that this shrub will look great in most cottage gardens of all types.
What zone is Ilex Verticillata best for?
With this in mind, the Ilex Verticillata will be most used to the heat zones in the 5 – 8 region, as the plant hardiness level falls between 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5b, 5a, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9b, 9a and the ideal climate zone is between 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, A2, A3.
Where is Ilex Verticillata grown?
The Ilex Verticillata is used to growing in specific regions such as the states in Southeast, Northeast, and the Southwest of the United States.
Can Ilex Verticillata be grown in wet soil?
Additionally, it has a special tolerance for clay soil and wet soil, so don’t worry if any of these come along, your Ilex Verticillata will be fine.
Do Ilex Verticillata need moist soil?
Specifically, most experts agree that the Ilex Verticillata needs evenly spread moist soil – try to avoid letting the soil dry out.
Where do winterberry hollies grow?
Winterberry holly grows native over a huge swath of North America – eastern Canada all the way through the southern US and as far west as Texas – so it is very hardy (down to USDA zone 3) as well as very heat tolerant (through USDA zone 9). Unlike the classic “Christmas” holly, winterberry holly loses its leaves every autumn, which makes its crop of bright red or yellow berries even more striking. However, getting those berries is precisely why questions about this beautiful native shrub fill our inbox all year.
How much sun do winterberries need?
We recommend a minimum of four hours of sun each day , or filtered light throughout the day, for the best display.
How long does it take for a winterberry holly to bloom?
Like most shrubs, winterberry hollies bloom and subsequently fruit best when they are established – usually after 2-3 years in the ground. Newly planted winterberries (and especially very small plants that are sold online) will need some time to develop a good root system and put on new growth before they will fruit to their full potential.
Why are my winterberry hollies not forming fruit?
Stress. If your winterberry hollies experience drought stress, they may not form fruit or may drop any fruit that was beginning to form. In dry soils, provide plenty of water and a good 2-3”/5-7cm layer of mulch to prevent plants from drying out too much. Too much shade.
Why don't winterberry hollies have berries?
However, there are a few reasons why winterberry hollies – and particularly recently planted winterberry hollies – may not have berries: Plants blo omed prior to purchase. If you just purchased the plants, they were likely stored in a greenhouse by a grower or garden center during the previous winter.
How many female hollies do you need to plant?
Male hollies will never develop berries, so they aren’t very showy. Fortunately, you only need to plant one to pollinate up to five female plants.
Is Winterberry Holly a male or female plant?
Winterberry holly is dioecious (dye-oh-ee-shus, Greek for “two houses”). In other words, each individual plant bears only one type of flower: those that will turn into berries (a female plant) or those that bear pollen (a male plant). This means that to get a beautiful, berry-covered winterberry holly, you must plant both a male and a female.
How many male winterberry plants pollinate?
Generally, one male winterberry will be sufficient for pollinating 9-10 female plants.
How tall does a sage bush grow?
Slow growing, this deciduous shrub has an upright, rounded habit and grows up to 3-5 ft. tall and wide (90-150 cm). Its modest size makes it ideal for small gardens.
Where does Winterberry grow?
Winterberry ( Ilex verticillata) is a shrub that is related to holly. It is native to the Northeastern US where it grows in marshy areas. If you have a wet area in your yard, this would be a great shrub to plant in that space. But it will also grow just fine in regular soil.
What is a winterberry?
Winterberry is a native plant that will add a splash of color to your winter landscape as well as provide a welcome buffet for wildlife.
How to tell if a winterberry shrub is male or female?
Answer: An easy way to tell if a winterberry shrub is male or female during the winter is to look for berries. Only the female shrubs have berries. Wait to take your cuttings until after your last frost and the shrubs are actively growing. Right now, they are dormant and won't root. Once you see that the shrubs from which you want to take cuttings have leaves and new shoots, you can take your cuttings. They will root in 30 to 90 days. Once they have rooted, you can transplant them outdoors.
What are the names of the berries that fall off the leaves?
Once the leaves have fallen, the bright red berries are revealed. If they are not eaten by wildlife, they will stay on the branches for most of the winter providing color to your yard during a season with little color. Winterberry is known by many different names such as Black Alder, Brook Alder, False Alder, Canada Holly and Fever Bush.
How to propagate winterberry bushes?
The seed needs moist, cold stratification. The easiest way to do that is to plant the seeds 1/8 inch deep in a container with pre-moistened soil. Then cover the container with plastic. Place the covered seeded container in your refrigerator for four weeks . The cold in the refrigerator mimics the cold weather that the seeds would experience outdoors. They need this period of cold to break dormancy. The plastic cover keeps in the moisture, preventing the soil from drying out. This mimics the seeds natural environment which is marshy and wet. You should check the soil periodically to make sure that it is not drying out. Plants grown from seed should begin to produce flowers after three years.
How to tell if a male or female shrub is pollinating?
To produce the colorful berries, you will need a male and a female plant. They should be labelled at the nursery. If not, you can tell them apart when they bloom in the summer. The male shrub will have small flowers in clusters while the female shrub’s flowers will be more conspicuous and fewer in number. You don’t need to purchase your plants in pairs. One male is enough to pollinate six to ten females. Just make sure that the male is within 40 feet of the females.
Is winterberry a native plant?
Natives are adapted to our growing conditions and provide a valuable source of food and shelter for the wildlife in our yards. Winterberry is a native plant that will add a splash of color to your winter landscape as well as provide a welcome buffet for wildlife.
