Red Sprite Winterberry Holly

Red Sprite Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata 'Red Sprite')

Red Sprite Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata 'Red Sprite') is a compact female cultivar prized for its vivid red berries and dwarf form, making it ideal for smaller gardens, foundation beds, and mass plantings. As a deciduous native holly, it brings bold winter interest and wildlife value while requiring minimal space, making it a standout focal point in cold-season landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Red Sprite' grows into a dense, rounded shrub reaching just 3 to 5 feet tall and wide. It is known for producing large, bright red berries on bare stems in fall and winter, offering strong seasonal contrast against snow or evergreen backgrounds. Its short stature and heavy fruiting habit make it one of the most widely used dwarf winterberries for landscape and container use.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Prefers moist, acidic soils; tolerates clay and seasonally wet sites
• Water: Moderate to high; benefits from consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Compact form and brilliant red berries shine in winter displays
• Foundation Planting: Excellent choice near entrances or along walkways
• Mass Plantings: Provides dense berry coverage when planted in groups
• Containers: Suitable for seasonal pots and decorative planters
• Wildlife Gardens: Offers food and shelter for birds in winter

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist, especially during establishment and drought
• Pruning: Minimal; shape in late winter if desired
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer for acid-loving shrubs in early spring
• Mulching: Helps retain soil moisture and reduce weed competition
• Pollination: Requires a male pollinator such as Ilex verticillata 'Jim Dandy'

Why Choose Red Sprite Winterberry Holly?

• Dwarf Habit: Perfect for tight spaces, small gardens, and containers
• Bold Winter Color: Large berries provide vibrant contrast during the dormant season
• Native Adaptability: Thrives in varied soil types and moisture conditions
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and naturally tidy
• Focal Point: Delivers oversized impact in a compact footprint

Ilex verticillata 'Red Sprite' brings brilliant color and native resilience to small-scale landscapes, offering a reliable and visually striking solution for winter interest and wildlife value.