Species

Ilex verticillataWinterberry

9 other cultivars

shrubN. America Native

Mr. Poppins Winterberry

Ilex verticillata 'Farrowmrp'

Same species

Species

Ilex verticillataWinterberry

9 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to Wet

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Berries are toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex verticillata, or winterberry, is a deciduous holly native to eastern North America. It is celebrated for its brilliant display of berries on bare winter branches, requiring both male and female plants for fruiting. 'Mr. Poppins' (Farrowmrp) is a compact male pollinator. It does not produce berries itself but is essential for pollinating nearby female varieties like 'Berry Poppins'. Its smaller size makes it ideal for residential landscapes.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

While not showy itself, 'Mr. Poppins' is the key to unlocking the spectacular winter beauty of female winterberry hollies, which light up the landscape with vibrant berries against snow.

Its compact size allows it to be tucked into smaller gardens or mixed borders without taking up excessive space, making the iconic winterberry display accessible for more homeowners.

The flowers of 'Mr. Poppins' provide nectar for native bees. By pollinating female plants, it facilitates the production of berries that are a critical winter food source for over 40 species of birds, including robins and bluebirds.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun to part shade and moist, acidic soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
Amend heavy clay or sandy soil with compost.
Set the plant in the hole, with the root ball top level with the ground.
Backfill with soil and water deeply to remove air pockets.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant one 'Mr. Poppins' within 50 feet of up to five female winterberry shrubs to ensure adequate pollination.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide ample water, especially in the first year and during dry spells.
Plant in acidic soil (pH 4.5-6.5) for best results.
Ensure a female winterberry is planted nearby for berry production.
Prune only as needed for shaping in late winter.

Don't

Do not let the soil dry out; winterberry loves moisture.
Avoid planting in alkaline soils, which causes yellowing leaves.
Do not expect this male plant to produce berries.
Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce flowering.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Essential pollinator for female winterberriesMass planting in rain gardens or wet areasNaturalistic border or woodland edge planting

Companion Plants

Ilex verticillata 'Berry Poppins' Cornus sericea Clethra alnifolia Iris versicolor Panicum virgatum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mr. Poppins Winterberry questions

What zones can Mr. Poppins Winterberry grow in?

Mr. Poppins Winterberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mr. Poppins Winterberry deer resistant?

Yes — Mr. Poppins Winterberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Mr. Poppins Winterberry bloom?

Mr. Poppins Winterberry typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mr. Poppins Winterberry need full sun?

Mr. Poppins Winterberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.