Common winterberry - Ilex verticillata (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Common winterberry

Also known as: Winterberry holly, Coralberry, False Alder

Common winterberry (Ilex verticillata) is a berry species commonly grown in eastern gardens within the United States. Common winterberry is valued for its ability to grow in temperate climates and the colors it provides as an ornamental plant. The common winterberry is also called Michigan holly.

Scientific classification

Species

Common winterberry (Ilex verticillata)

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Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

1 m to 5 m

Plant Height

1.8 m to 3 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

5 mm

Flower Size

Red, Burgundy, Orange

Fruit Color

White, Green

Flower Color

Green, Red, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Common winterberry

Attributes of Common winterberry

Growth Rate

At a moderate growth rate, common winterberry displays a steady increase in height and leaf production during spring and summer. This rate allows common winterberry to mature healthily, fostering the development of its characteristic red berries in late summer. Despite a lower growth speed in colder seasons, common winterberry primarily expands in warmer months, its growth pace influencing balance between size, foliage, and fruit production.

Distribution of Common winterberry

Distribution Map

Common winterberry is native to central and eastern US and Canada, growing near lakes and ponds, in swamps, and along riverbanks. Common winterberry is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in the US.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Swamps, pond margins, damp thickets

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Common winterberry is a popular deciduous shrub prized for its unique purple-green foliage that turns black after a freeze, and the large clusters of bright red berries. It is an essential plant in ornamental hedges. Plant it with other holly species for contrasting foliage and texture.

Symbolism

Protection, Anti-Lightning, Luck

Name Story

Common winterberry: This shrub plant does not have any outstanding appearance. The only attractive part of the plant is its fruit. The fruit holds the appearance of a small red ball of fire and it also hangs on a branch like grapes. As it continues to hang on to its branch for a long time until winter, it is called common winterberry.

Fever bush: The berries were used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans especially during fever, so it is called fever bush.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Common winterberry, including the following common varieties :

Common winterberry 'Red Sprite'Common winterberry 'Winter Gold'Common winterberry 'Wildfire'Common winterberry 'Winter Red'

Toxicity

Common winterberry is mildly toxic to cats and dogs. All parts of the plant are harmful and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort when ingested in large amounts. Immediate veterinary care is essential if ingestion is suspected to ensure safety and health of the pets.

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Quickly Identify Common winterberry

Distinct red berries with black terminal dots.

Pubescent leaf veins with impressed texture.

Small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers.

Bright red berries with black pit scar.

Olive to purplish-brown stem with lenticels.

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Care Guide for Common winterberry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from wetlands, common winterberry thrives in high humidity and evenly moist soil. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks and adjusts water uptake in varying rain patterns during the growing season. This resilient outdoor plant is commonly found in temperate regions.

Fertilize: For common winterberry, use balanced fertilizers (10-10-10) in early spring for growth, switching to high nitrogen later for foliage. Apply every 2-3 months and avoid over-fertilization. Reduce feeding in late fall and winter during dormancy. Wear gloves; consider slow-release options for consistent nutrients.

Pruning: Common winterberry is a deciduous shrub known for its bright red berries. Prune in early spring by removing damaged branches and thinning crowded areas to enhance berry production and air circulation. Ensure cuts are clean and angled for quick healing, as validated by reliable horticultural sources.

Propagation: The ideal propagation season for common winterberry is autumn and winter, utilizing cutting and layering methods. Success is indicated by new growth and leaf development. Maintain proper moisture and well-draining soil for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot common winterberry every 2-3 years in early spring, using a container one size larger. After repotting, keep the soil moist and use mulch for recovery. This plant needs space for root growth and consistent care post-repotting to thrive.

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Images of Common winterberry

Attributes of Common winterberry

Distribution of Common winterberry

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Common winterberry

Care Guide for Common winterberry

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