Deciduous North American holly grown specifically for the masses of brilliant scarlet berries that line the bare winter twigs after the leaves drop. Among the most striking winter berry displays of any temperate shrub.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 3–9 | −40 °C to −1.1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H7 | down to −20 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 3–8 | −34 °C to −1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 2–6 | −10 °C to 15 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Brilliant scarlet berries on bare winter stems from November through into late winter — the deciduous habit makes the fruit far more visible than on evergreen hollies
- Separate male and female plants required for berries — one male will pollinate up to ten females, plant a known male cultivar alongside (‘Jim Dandy’, ‘Southern Gentleman’) chosen to match the females’ flowering time
- Tolerates wet ground better than most hollies — natural to North American swamps
- Important winter food source for thrushes and other songbirds in its native range
Pet caution: Winterberry holly is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
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Related plants
Cross-check Winterberry holly against your zones