Sparkleberry Winterberry is a slow-growing upright deciduous shrub with a rounded habit and luscious dark green foliage that turns yellow-green bronze in fall. As a female cultivar, Sparkleberry produces heavy amounts of glossy bright red berries if pollinated that can persist into spring. Best planted in moist, slightly acidic well-drained soils. Hollies are dioecious and need both male and female plants to produce fruit.
Ilex verticillata is a native food source for several animals and pollinators, and acts as a host for various moths and the Henry's Elfin Butterfly. While the wildlife enjoys the berries they are toxic to humans.
|
Type: |
|
|
Origins: |
Eastern N. America; north GA Native |
|
Height: |
6' - 10' |
|
Spread: |
6’ - 10' |
|
Spacing: |
8’ |
|
USDA Hardiness Zone: |
5 - 9 |
|
Culture: |
|
|
Bloom Color: |
White |
|
Season of Interest: |
MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance. Water regularly. Well-drained soils essential. Potential issues include mites, scale, leaf spot, rot, and mildew. Susceptible to leaf scorch or drop if not protected from afternoon sun in hotter climates.
LANDSCAPE USES: Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Wildlife Gardens, Privacy Screen, Foundation Plantings, Hedges, and Containers.
COMPANION PLANTS: Azalea, Camellia, Hydrangea
IMAGE: Photo by David J. Stang, Ilex verticillata Sparkleberry 2zz, CC BY-SA 4.0
