Serving the Kansas City Metro for over 25 Years
Public Plant Profile

Jim Dandy Winterberry Holly

Ilex verticillata 'Jim Dandy'

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Holly

Jim Dandy Winterberry Holly offers stunning red berries and is perfect for wildlife gardens.

Mature Height: 4-6 feet
Mature Width: 3-5 feet
Light: Sun
Zone: Zones 3-9
Maintenance: Moderate
Growth Rate: Moderate
Season of Interest: Multi-season
Foliage: Deciduous
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Jim Dandy Winterberry Holly is a deciduous shrub known for its vibrant red berries that attract birds. It has a compact growth habit and is often used in landscaping for winter interest.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, acidic soil and can tolerate wet conditions.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil with high moisture retention. Prefers acidic pH and adapts to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Sun

Watering Needs

Requires consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.

Pruning Notes

Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Common Issues

May face issues with leaf spot, scale insects, or poor berry production if not properly pollinated.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenmass plantingpollinator garden

Special Features

Attractive red berrieswildlife-friendlyseasonal interest

Wildlife Value

Attracts birds and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for naturalized areas and wetland gardens. Consider planting male and female varieties for berry production.

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Use this page to get a feel for where Jim Dandy Winterberry Holly may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Is Jim Dandy Winterberry Holly a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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