Winterberry
Deciduous shrub reaching 2-4 m tall. Features elliptical, toothed leaves and inconspicuous white flowers in early summer, followed by bright red berries persisting into winter. Prefers acidic, moist to wet soils and full sun to partial shade. Dioecious, requiring both male and female plants for berry production. Provides winter food for birds. Suitable for rain gardens, wetland margins, and winter interest in landscapes.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: White
Bloom Time: Early-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Leaves emerge late May. Inconspicuous flowers appear June. Berries develop green, turning bright red September, persisting through winter. Leaves drop October.
Wildlife Value: High value winter food source; berries eaten by >20 bird species; excellent cover for birds; male and female plants required for fruit
Habit Over Time: Forms an upright, multi-stemmed shrub that slowly expands through root suckers. New stems emerge close to the base, creating a dense structure that becomes more open toward the top. While it can form larger colonies over time, the spread is gradual and predictable. Winter berry display provides strong seasonal interest. Note that male and female plants are needed for berry production.
Height: Medium to Tall (3-12 feet)