KJFM NEWS — Garden Talk is produced monthly at the Adair County University of Missouri Extension Center in Kirksville, Mo.

Focus on an Ornamental: Winterberry

Winterberry (Ilex verticillate), is a type of native deciduous holly.  Winterberry is dioecious, which means it has separate male and female plants. Only fertilized female flowers will produce berries, so there must be a male plant in the area. Cultivars of winterberry such as ‘Winter Red’ are often sold in bundles of male and female plants to ensure berry production.

Winterberry will grow in a variety of soil types and does well in full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade. It is considered a medium-sized shrub reaching an average mature height and width of 6-8 feet. The bright red berries will often last throughout the winter and are attractive to birds and other wildlife. Winterberry is a background plant in the summer months, but becomes the center of attention when covered with the beautiful berries in winter.