Maryland Beauty Winterberry Holly
Maryland Beauty Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata 'Maryland Beauty')
Maryland Beauty Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata 'Maryland Beauty') is a vigorous, upright female cultivar valued for its profuse display of bright red berries that persist well into winter. This deciduous holly features a dense branching structure and excellent fruit retention, making it a standout focal point in the winter landscape and a favorite for cut branch arrangements.
Distinctive Features
'Maryland Beauty' produces abundant fruit on a tall, upright framework that typically reaches 6 to 8 feet high. Its glossy green foliage turns yellow in fall before dropping to reveal stems lined with persistent red berries. Known for its especially heavy fruit set and long-lasting display, it�s an ideal choice for adding vibrant winter color in native or ornamental landscapes.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Moist, acidic soil; tolerant of clay, loam, and wet conditions
- Water: Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�9
Ideal Uses
- Focal Point: Bold red berries stand out dramatically in winter landscapes
- Naturalized Areas: Blends well into woodland edges and wetland margins
- Privacy Screens: Dense form offers seasonal cover
- Cut Branches: Popular for seasonal d�cor and floral arrangements
- Wildlife Gardens: Attracts birds and supports pollinators
Low Maintenance Care
- Watering: Keep evenly moist, especially during dry spells
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to shape or thin if needed
- Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving shrubs in early spring
- Mulching: Helps conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Pollination: Requires a male pollinator such as Ilex verticillata 'Southern Gentleman'
Why Choose Maryland Beauty Winterberry Holly?
- Outstanding Berry Display: Exceptionally heavy fruit set with long-lasting impact
- Strong Upright Form: Adds structure and vertical interest
- Native Adaptability: Performs well in wet and variable soil conditions
- Seasonal Wildlife Value: Supports birds and pollinators
- Focal Point: A reliable choice for dramatic winter color and landscape contrast
Ilex verticillata 'Maryland Beauty' delivers reliable structure, brilliant seasonal color, and native resilience�making it a high-performing addition to landscapes seeking year-round visual interest and ecological value.
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