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Plant of the Month - January

January 2025



Winterberry Holly

Illex verticillata




If you want to enhance your landscape with vibrant seasonal color, Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata) is the perfect choice. This hardy shrub (native to Eastern North America - including Ohio) is prized for its brilliant red berries that persist throughout winter, adding beauty to your yard when most other plants have gone dormant. Winterberry Holly is a great recommendation for homeowners looking to elevate their outdoor spaces.


Growth & Planting Information

Ideal Growing Conditions

  • Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; more sunlight encourages better berry production.

  • Soil: Thrives in acidic, well-drained soil but tolerates clay and wet conditions.

  • Watering: Prefers moist soils and is highly adaptable to rain gardens or wetland areas.

  • Size: Grows 6-12 feet tall and wide, making it great for hedging and natural screening.

  • Pollination: To produce berries, you’ll need both a male and female plant. Popular varieties include:

    • Jim Dandy (Male) + Berry Poppins (Female)

    • Southern Gentleman (Male) + Winter Red (Female)

When & How to Plant Winterberry Holly

For best results, plant Winterberry Holly in early spring or fall. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and place the plant at the same depth it was in the container. Water thoroughly after planting and add mulch to retain moisture.

Pruning & Maintenance

Minimal pruning is needed, but shaping can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can impact berry production.


Landscape Benefits

✅ Winter Interest: Its vibrant red berries provide striking color against the winter landscape.

✅ Wildlife Attraction: The berries offer a valuable food source for birds, including cardinals and robins.

✅ Erosion Control: Perfect for wet areas or rain gardens where soil stabilization is needed.

✅ Privacy & Screening: Works well as a natural hedge or mixed border planting.

✅ Low Maintenance: Once established, Winterberry Holly requires minimal care beyond occasional watering and light pruning.


Why Choose Summitview Landscape?

At Summitview Landscape, we serve Wapakoneta, Lima, St. Marys, Sidney, Celina, and surrounding communities, helping homeowners and businesses create stunning, functional landscapes. Whether you're looking to incorporate Winterberry Holly or need a full landscape design, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.

👉 Contact Summitview Landscape today for a consultation and let us transform your outdoor space with professional planting, hardscaping, and landscape maintenance services!




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