Species

Ilex verticillataWinterberry

9 other cultivars

shrub

Winterberry Holly

Ilex verticillata 'Apollo'

Same species

Species

Ilex verticillataWinterberry

9 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144 inches

Width

144 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate to High

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous shrub

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex verticillata is a deciduous holly native to eastern North America. It is dioecious, meaning plants are either male or female. Male plants produce pollen but no berries. 'Apollo' is a male cultivar selected for its vigorous growth and ability to pollinate a wide range of late-blooming female winterberries, such as 'Sparkleberry' and 'Winter Red'. It does not produce berries.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

This plant has very little ornamental value on its own. Its purpose is purely functional, to enable the spectacular berry display on female plants.

It is the essential male pollinator for late-blooming female Ilex verticillata cultivars like 'Winter Red' and 'Sparkleberry', ensuring a heavy fruit set.

During its bloom period, the flowers provide a valuable source of pollen for native bees and other pollinating insects.

Planting

How to Grow

Site in full sun to part shade in acidic, moist soil.
Plant within 50 feet of the female plants you wish to pollinate.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
Set the plant at the same depth it was growing in the pot.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly.
Mulch with acidic material like pine bark or needles.

Pro Tip

One 'Apollo' can pollinate up to ten female plants. Plant it in the background, as it offers little ornamental value itself.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Ensure it blooms at the same time as your female hollies.
Provide consistent moisture for best health.
Prune to maintain a manageable size if needed.
Plant it where it gets enough sun to produce plenty of pollen.

Don't

Don't expect it to produce berries; it is a male plant.
Don't plant it as a standalone ornamental specimen.
Don't plant in dry, alkaline soil.
Don't remove it thinking it's a 'dud' - it's essential for fruit.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Essential pollinator for female winterberry shrubsBackground shrub in a mixed borderNaturalistic planting in moist areas or rain gardens

Companion Plants

Ilex verticillata 'Sparkleberry' Ilex verticillata 'Winter Red' Clethra alnifolia 'Hummingbird' Sambucus canadensis Aronia melanocarpa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Winterberry Holly questions

What zones can Winterberry Holly grow in?

Winterberry Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Winterberry Holly deer resistant?

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

When does Winterberry Holly bloom?

Winterberry Holly 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 Winterberry Holly need full sun?

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