Berry Heavy Winterberry Holly

Berry Heavy® winterberry holly is the selection ‘Spravy’ of Ilex verticillata, valued for abundant bright red berries that carry color through fall and winter ([Proven Winners](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/ilex/berry-heavy-winterberry-holly-ilex-verticillata); the cultivar name is listed by [Sooner Plant Farm](https://www.soonerplantfarm.com/plant/berry-heavy-winterberry-holly)). Its leaves fall away to expose the fruit, and a male winterberry is needed for berry set ([Proven Winners](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/ilex/berry-heavy-winterberry-holly-ilex-verticillata)). ## Features This upright, deciduous shrub matures about 6–8 feet tall and wide. White flowers bloom in late spring on old wood. The bright red fruit is especially visible after leaf drop and can be cut for seasonal arrangements. Birds eat the berries after they soften in midwinter. ## Siting and Use Grow in full sun to part sun in moist, acidic soil with good drainage; the plant also tolerates wet, boggy ground. Use it in mixed borders, mass plantings, screens or hedges, and rain gardens. It is hardy in USDA zones 3–9. For fruit, pair it with a male winterberry; Proven Winners recommends Mr. Poppins as a pollinator. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ilex-verticillata/) describes species soil and pollination needs. ## Maintenance This easy-care shrub needs little pruning. In late winter or early spring, remove dead or broken wood and lightly shape if needed before new growth begins. Deadheading is not needed.