Species

Ilex verticillataWinterberry

9 other cultivars

shrubN. America Native

Berry Heavy Gold Winterberry

Ilex verticillata 'Roberta Case'

Same species

Species

Ilex verticillataWinterberry

9 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous shrub

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Berries are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex verticillata is a deciduous holly native to eastern North America, prized for its brilliant display of berries on bare stems in winter. It is dioecious, requiring both male and female plants for fruit production. 'Roberta Case', sold as Berry Heavy Gold, is a female cultivar celebrated for its exceptionally large and abundant golden-yellow berries. The unique berry color provides a stunning contrast against snow or evergreen backgrounds.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

This shrub is a standout in the winter landscape, where its masses of bright golden-yellow berries on bare branches create a stunning visual display, especially against a snowy backdrop or evergreen hedge.

The berry-laden branches are highly valued for floral arrangements and holiday decorations, providing long-lasting color indoors during the winter months.

The berries are a crucial late-season food source for many bird species, including cedar waxwings, bluebirds, and robins, sustaining them after other food sources have been depleted.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun for best berry production.
Ensure soil is acidic; amend with sulfur if necessary.
Plant female and one male pollinator within 50 feet of each other.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant at the same depth it was in the container.
Water deeply and apply a layer of acidic mulch.

Pro Tip

Plant one male pollinator, like 'Jim Dandy', for every 5-10 female plants to ensure a spectacular berry display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water, especially in the first year.
Test soil pH and maintain acidic conditions.
Prune to remove dead or crossing branches in late winter.
Plant in a location where the winter berries can be enjoyed.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline (high pH) soil, which causes yellowing leaves.
Don't forget to plant a male pollinator; no male, no berries.
Avoid pruning after it flowers, or you will remove the berries for next winter.
Don't let the soil dry out completely, as it prefers moist conditions.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dazzling winter interest specimenWildlife-friendly hedge or mass plantingExcellent for rain gardens and wet areas

Companion Plants

Ilex verticillata 'Jim Dandy' (pollinator) Cornus sericea Aronia arbutifolia Panicum virgatum Betula nigra

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Berry Heavy Gold Winterberry questions

What zones can Berry Heavy Gold Winterberry grow in?

Berry Heavy Gold 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 Berry Heavy Gold Winterberry deer resistant?

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

When does Berry Heavy Gold Winterberry bloom?

Berry Heavy Gold 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 Berry Heavy Gold Winterberry need full sun?

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