Ilex verticillata, commonly known as Winterberry Holly, is a stunning native deciduous shrub prized for its brilliant red berries that provide exceptional color from late fall through winter. After its green foliage drops in autumn, clusters of vibrant berries remain on the bare branches, creating a striking display that brightens the winter landscape. This four-season shrub also produces small white flowers in late spring that attract bees and other beneficial pollinators.
This low-maintenance native shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained to wet soils, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, native plant landscapes, woodland edges, and areas with seasonal moisture. Once established, Winterberry Holly is adaptable, cold hardy, and deer resistant. Its abundant berries provide an important winter food source for birds and other wildlife, making it a valuable addition to habitat-friendly gardens.
Ideal for foundation plantings, mixed shrub borders, mass plantings, naturalized areas, and winter landscape interest, Ilex verticillata pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses, evergreens, native shrubs, and flowering perennials. Whether used as a colorful focal point, informal hedge, or wildlife-friendly planting, Winterberry Holly offers outstanding seasonal beauty, ecological benefits, and reliable performance in residential and commercial landscapes.