Description
Winterberry – Winter Red (Ilex verticillata 'Winter Red') is a standout deciduous shrub known for its brilliant display of cherry red berries that brighten the landscape from mid-fall through late winter. This Massachusetts-friendly native requires a male pollinator such as Southern Gentleman to produce its signature berries. With a rounded, suckering habit and mature size of 8 feet tall and wide, it’s ideal for mass plantings, naturalized borders, and rain gardens.
Adaptable to full sun or part sun, Winter Red thrives in highly acidic, consistently moist soil—making it perfect for challenging wet spots in the landscape. While the dark green foliage remains green into fall, it serves as a lush backdrop for the bold winter berries. Blooming in late spring to early summer, this shrub adds subtle seasonal interest before putting on a bold winter show. A reliable and low-maintenance shrub that brings lasting color and wildlife value to gardens across Zones 3–8.
Each plant comes in a #3 (3 gallon) growers container. The image shown represents an example of what you may receive. Please note that the height, shape, and fullness of each plant may vary due to natural growth patterns. Rest assured, we will select the healthiest and most vibrant plant for you.
Plant Specs:
Botanical Name: Ilex Verticillata Winter Red
Light: full sun, part sun
Watering: keep soil consistently moist
Soil: highly acidic, moist, well draining soil
Zone: 3 – 8
Plant Shape: oval
Plant Type: deciduous shrub
Mature Size: height (8'), width (8')
Blooming Season: late spring/early summer
Pollinator?: needs a male clone
Have any questions or need help finding the right plant? Reach out to our Customer Service team using the blue chat function on the right to call, text, or email them. They are happy to help!
