About
Ilex verticillata (f), the common winterberry, is a large, suckering, deciduous shrub to 2�3 m with lime-green, oval to lance-shaped, toothed leaves turning yellow in autumn. Clusters of small, white flowers in mid-spring are followed by masses of long-lasting, bright-red � sometimes orange or yellow � berries that often persist well into winter. One of the most spectacular of all native North American deciduous shrubs for autumn berry display.
About the genus
Ilex, the hollies, are evergreen or deciduous shrubs and trees with often spiny, leathery leaves and small, white flowers � male and female usually on separate plants. Female plants produce the familiar red, yellow or black berries in autumn and winter when pollinated by a male nearby.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSpreading branched, Suckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained neutral to acid soil in a sunny or part-shaded position. Not suited to chalky soils
PruningPruning group 1; trim hedges in early spring
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn to midwinter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, holly leaf miner and young shoots may be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to holly leaf blight, Phytophthora root rot and sometimes honey fungus