Scarlett O'Hara Winterberry Holly

Scarlett O'Hara Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata 'Scarlett O'Hara')

Scarlett O'Hara Winterberry is a vigorous female selection of native winterberry holly noted for heavy clusters of bright red berries that glow from late fall through winter; glossy green leaves on an upright, multi-stemmed shrub provide a clean backdrop in summer and drop in autumn to reveal the fruit display.

Distinctive Features

Abundant, showy red berries persist well into winter for standout seasonal color and bird appeal, while the strong, upright framework suits hedges, screens, and naturalized plantings in wet or average garden soils.

Growing Conditions

Plant in full sun to partial shade with consistently moist, acidic, well-drained to wet soils; add a compatible male pollinator matched to bloom time for best fruit set.

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; heaviest fruiting with at least 6 hours of sun.
• Soil: Acidic, humus-rich soil; tolerates clay and periodically wet sites.
• Water: Moderate to high; keep evenly moist, especially in summer dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 6 to 8 ft tall and 4 to 6 ft wide.
• Bloom Time: Late spring; berries color in fall and persist into winter.
• Soil pH: Preferably 4.5 to 6.5.

Ideal Uses

Use as a winter focal point and wildlife resource, or repeat in groups for a berried hedge that shines after leaf drop.

• Focal Point: Brilliant red fruit provides strong winter interest.
• Hedge or Screen: Upright habit forms a dense seasonal barrier.
• Rain Garden: Thrives in low spots and pond margins.
• Native and Wildlife Beds: Fruit supports birds in lean months.
• Cut Branches: Berried stems elevate holiday arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

Simple watering and light structural pruning keep plants healthy and fruiting; pair with a pollinizer for reliable berries.

• Watering: Deeply soak during establishment and drought; do not allow prolonged dryness.
• Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter to thin and shape without removing too much flowering wood; avoid heavy midseason cuts.
• Fertilizing: Apply an acid-forming, slow-release fertilizer in early spring based on soil test.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 in of pine bark or leaf mold to conserve moisture and maintain acidity, keeping mulch off stems.
• Notes: Female cultivar; plant a compatible male such as 'Southern Gentleman' within 30 to 50 ft and matched to bloom time to ensure heavy fruit set.

Why Choose Scarlett O'Hara Winterberry Holly?

This selection delivers dependable winter color and ecological value with minimal fuss.

• Iconic Winter Display: Long-lasting red berries brighten leafless landscapes.
• Moisture Tolerant: Handles clay and wet ground better than many shrubs.
• Wildlife Friendly: Fruit and branching offer seasonal food and cover.
• Design Versatility: Works as specimen, hedge, or mass planting.
• Low Input: Modest feeding and simple pruning for reliable performance.

Site in sun with acidic, moisture-retentive soil and pair with a compatible male to enjoy showy, bird-friendly berries all winter.