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Public Plant Profile

Winter Red Winterberry Holly

Ilex verticillata 'Winter Red'

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Holly

Winter Red Winterberry Holly offers vibrant red berries and winter interest, perfect for gardens and wildlife.

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Mature Height: 4-6 feet

Mature Width: 3-5 feet

Bloom Color: White

Bloom Time: Spring

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 3-9

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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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

Winter Red Winterberry Holly is a deciduous shrub known for its vibrant red berries that persist into winter, providing excellent winter interest. It features glossy green leaves that turn yellow in fall.

Ideal Conditions

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

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil is ideal, with a preference for acidic pH. Adaptable to various moisture levels.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, to maintain healthy growth.

Pruning Notes

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

Fertilizing Notes

Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth and berry production.

Common Issues

May be susceptible to leaf spot, scale insects, and poor berry production if not adequately pollinated.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenmass plantingpollinator garden

Special Features

Bright red berriesattractive winter interest

Wildlife Value

Attracts birds with its berries.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for naturalizing in wet areas. Provides food for birds in winter.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Winter Red 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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