Ilex verticillata 'Winter Red'

'Winter Red' is a female cultivar of winterberry holly that is noteworthy for its vivid red fruits. It is a member of the the holly family (Aquifoliaceae).

'Winter Red' prefers moist to wet organic-rich acidic soil in sun to part shade but is adaptable to clay soil types. It will tolerate being planted in low areas, along streams and ponds. Flowers appear on new growth, thus if pruning this shrub to shape, do it in early spring before new growth appears.

This cultivar of winterberry grows 6-8 feet tall and wide and is a heavy fruit producer when a male plant (pollinizer) is nearby. A good male plant to pair it with is 'Southern Gentleman'. This suckering shrub has a rounded form and provides year-round interest. It is especially attractive in winter as the leaves will drop leaving bright red berries which can persist through winter. 

 It can also be used as a hedge, in a rain garden or as a specimen plant. It works well in native gardens, pollinator gardens and winter gardens.

Fire Risk: This plant has a low flammability rating.

Quick ID Hints:

• Deciduous shrubby holly with persistent red berries.
• Leaves are serrated and veins are pubescent underneath.
• Leaf veins are impressed on the upper side of the leaf.

Insects, Diseases, or Other Plant Problems:   No serious problems.  Leaf spots and powdery mildew occasionally occur. Neutral to alkaline soils may cause chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) and even death. It may abort fruit set in dry soil.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common diseases and insect pests.

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.

More information on Ilex verticillata.