Winterberry 100 Seeds Ilex verticillata

Ilex verticillata, commonly known as winterberry holly, is a deciduous holly native to eastern North America and valued for its brilliant display of red berries that persist through winter. Unlike most hollies, it sheds its leaves in autumn, leaving its bright fruits to stand out vividly against bare branches or snow-covered landscapes. This medium-sized shrub typically grows 6 to 10 feet tall, with a rounded or upright form and dense branching. Small white flowers appear in late spring to early summer, and while individually inconspicuous, they are essential for fruit production. Winterberry is dioecious, meaning both male and female plants are required for berry set, with pollination carried out by insects. The glossy red berries ripen in fall and are highly attractive to birds, providing an important food source in colder months. Ilex verticillata thrives in moist, acidic soils and tolerates wet conditions better than most hollies, making it ideal for rain gardens, woodland edges, and naturalized plantings. It performs best in full sun to partial shade. As an ornamental shrub, it is cherished for its vibrant winter color, seasonal interest, and ecological value, making it a staple in both native and formal landscape designs.