Winterberry is a slow-growing, medium to large shrub with deciduous leaves and attractive red berries in wintertime. This plant is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants. Only female plants produce berries. The wild type species can be difficult to find because many cultivars exist.
Pollinator Type
Bees, flies, caterpillars
Plant Type
Deciduous shrub
Zone
3 to 9
Height
6 to 12 ft.
Spread
6 to 12 ft.
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil, Wet Soil
Bloom Color
White, Green
Bloom Time
June, July
Design Considerations
Excellent plant for poorly drained sites with good adaptability to varying soil conditions. Prefers full sun and wet, acidic soil. Chlorosis can be a major problem in high pH soils. Both male and female plants are required to produce berries, plan for 1 male plant per 5-10 females.
Care and Maintenance
Some maintenance required to limit suckering spread. Flowers on new wood, so pruning should occur in late winter or early spring. Plant is noted to tolerate salt spray exposure.
Pest and Diseases
Powdery mildew can be issue on sites with high moisture.
Establishment and Propagation
Typically established from potted plants. Transplant in fall or spring.
Commercial Availability
Rarely available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Red Osier Dogwood, Black Chokeberry
Native Status
Illinois native statewide; rare in central and southern Illinois.
Fall Color
Showy red berries. Foliage is typically insignificant and does not hold up well to frost.
