Ilex verticillata, commonly known as winterberry, is a beautifully exquisite holly which will brighten any garden during a dull winter day. Deciduous and native to Eastern North America where it is found thriving in swamps, damp thickets, low woodland and along streams. It can be slow growing with an upright habit that typically gets to a height of 3.5 metres tall. The flowers may be insignificant and small but attract many beneficial pollinators. Hollies are dioecious with male and female plants on separate plants. One male can pollinate 5-10 females. For this reason make sure you plant a good male to female ratio to ensure excellent berry displays in winter and snow conditions. There are now numerous cultivars available on the market. They will brighten any winter garden so grab your spade and get planting!
