250mg Winterberry Holly Seeds - Ilex verticillata Deciduous Shrub

Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, prized for its brilliant red berries that persist into winter. Unlike evergreen hollies, winterberry drops its leaves in fall, revealing branches heavily laden with colorful fruit. This hardy plant is a favorite for winter interest, native plant gardens, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. The berries provide a vital food source for birds, while the dense branching offers cover. Winterberry adapts to a range of soil conditions, including wet areas, making it a versatile choice for rain gardens and naturalized plantings.

Plant Features

• Deciduous shrub with bright red berries in fall and winter
• Native to North America and tolerant of wet soils
• Berries attract birds and provide winter interest
• Requires both male and female plants for fruit production
• Excellent for rain gardens, hedges, and naturalized areas

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Ilex verticillata
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist to wet, well-drained; tolerates clay
• Water Requirements: Moderate to high; keep soil consistently moist
• Growth Habit: Upright, rounded shrub
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
• Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer (inconspicuous flowers)
• Mature Height: 6-10 feet
• Spacing: 4-6 feet apart

Planting & Care

Winterberry seeds require stratification to germinate. Before sowing, cold-moist stratify seeds for 60-90 days. Sow seeds in a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix, barely covering them with soil. Keep the medium consistently moist and maintain a temperature around 70°F (21°C) during the day and cooler at night. Germination can be slow and uneven, often taking several months. Once seedlings have developed true leaves, transplant them into individual pots and grow them on in a sheltered spot. Harden off before planting outdoors in a permanent location. For best berry production, plant at least one male winterberry nearby as a pollinator.

What's Included

250mg of Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata) seeds.