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Winterberry

Ilex verticillata

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Type

Trees, Shrubs, & Vines

Forbs & Flowers

Grasses, Sedges, & Rushes

Conditions

Sun

Shade

Wet

Dry

Land Use

Obligate Wetland Plant almost always occurs in wetlands.

Facultative Wetland Usually occurs in wetlands but may occur in non-wetlands.

Facultative Plant occurs both in wetlands and in non-wetlands.

Facultative Upland Usually occurs in wetlands but may occur in non-wetlands.

Obligate Upland Plant almost always occurs in non-wetlands.

The leaves of Common Winterberry are not shaped with sharp teeth like other hollies and are not evergreen. The purplish green foliage turns black, in fact, with the first frost. Winterberry has separate male and female plants; only females will produce the attractive red berries that persist through the winter. Generally one male winterberry will be sufficient for pollinating 9-10 female plants. Prune to shape in early spring just before new growth appears. Attracts bees, birds and other mammals. Food source for caterpillars.

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Details

Plant Type

Trees, Shrubs, & Vines

Conditions

Sun

Shade

Wet

Native to Kentucky?

Native to Kentucky

Land Use

Facultative Wetland Usually occurs in wetlands but may occur in non-wetlands.

Project Uses

Bioswale / Rain Garden / Green Dry Basin

Riparian Restoration

Urban / Tree Box

Wetland Restoration

Tendency to Spread

Medium

Height (ft)

6-10

Flower Color

White

Fall Showy?

Yes

Flowering Time

May

Root Depth (ft)

1.3

Salinity Tolerance

Moderate Tolerance