Species

Ilex verticillataWinterberry

9 other cultivars

shrub RHS AwardN. America Native

Red Sprite Winterberry

Ilex verticillata 'Red Sprite'

$89.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Ilex verticillata is a deciduous holly native to eastern North America, prized for the showy berries that cover the bare stems of female plants in winter. It thrives in moist to wet, acidic soils and develops a multi-stemmed, rounded habit.

'Red Sprite' is a compact, dwarf female cultivar celebrated for its exceptionally large, numerous, and brilliant red berries that create a spectacular winter display. Its smaller size makes it suitable for a wide range of garden applications, but it requires a male pollinator like 'Jim Dandy' for fruit production.

Uses & Benefits:

'Red Sprite' is a premier shrub for winter interest. After its leaves drop, the branches are completely covered in brilliant red berries, creating a stunning contrast against snow or a dark evergreen background.

Its tolerance for wet soils makes it an ideal choice for rain gardens, bioswales, and pond margins. The berry-laden branches are highly prized for use in holiday arrangements and winter floral displays.

The berries are a critical late-season food source for many bird species, including robins, cedar waxwings, and bluebirds, often after they have softened from freezing and thawing. The flowers support native pollinators.

SpeciesIlex verticillataWinterberry

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48"

Width

48"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous shrub

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Berries are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Garden Goods Direct

In Stock$89.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with acidic, moist to wet soil in full sun.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Amend soil with compost or peat moss to increase acidity and moisture retention.
Set the plant so the crown is at soil level.
Plant a compatible male pollinator ('Jim Dandy') nearby.
Water deeply and mulch to keep roots cool and moist.

Pro Tip

Plant one 'Jim Dandy' male pollinator for every 6-10 'Red Sprite' females to ensure heavy berry production. Plant the male within 50 feet.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistently moist or even wet soil.
Ensure your soil is acidic (pH 4.5-6.5).
Plant in full sun for the most abundant berry display.
Prune in late winter while the plant is dormant.
Remember to plant a male pollinator.

Don't

Do not plant in dry, alkaline soils.
Avoid letting the soil dry out, especially during summer.
Don't prune after it starts to leaf out, or you may remove flower buds.
Don't expect berries without a nearby male winterberry.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Brilliant winter interest in mass plantingsStunning focal point in a winter gardenEssential component of rain gardens and pond edges

Companion Plants

Ilex verticillata 'Jim Dandy'Cornus sericea Betula nigra Panicum virgatum Clethra alnifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Sprite Winterberry questions

What zones can Red Sprite Winterberry grow in?

Red Sprite 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 Red Sprite Winterberry deer resistant?

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

When does Red Sprite Winterberry bloom?

Red Sprite 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 Red Sprite Winterberry need full sun?

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