Ilex verticillata 'Red Sprite' | Red Sprite Winterberry
DESCRIPTION
Ilex verticillata ‘Red Sprite’ is a compact deciduous holly that produces small greenish-white flowers in late spring to early summer. By autumn, these flowers give way to bright red berries that persist through winter, providing a bold splash of color to the landscape. The berries are highly attractive to birds and add interest to gardens during the colder months.
A cultivar derived from the North American native Ilex verticillata, ‘Red Sprite' is specifically bred for its smaller size and dense growth habit. Its manageable stature makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, borders, or as part of a winter-themed planting. The plant’s seasonal appeal and wildlife-friendly attributes make it a favorite among gardeners.
DESCRIPTION
Ilex verticillata ‘Red Sprite’ is a compact deciduous holly that produces small greenish-white flowers in late spring to early summer. By autumn, these flowers give way to bright red berries that persist through winter, providing a bold splash of color to the landscape. The berries are highly attractive to birds and add interest to gardens during the colder months.
A cultivar derived from the North American native Ilex verticillata, ‘Red Sprite' is specifically bred for its smaller size and dense growth habit. Its manageable stature makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, borders, or as part of a winter-themed planting. The plant’s seasonal appeal and wildlife-friendly attributes make it a favorite among gardeners.
DESCRIPTION
Ilex verticillata ‘Red Sprite’ is a compact deciduous holly that produces small greenish-white flowers in late spring to early summer. By autumn, these flowers give way to bright red berries that persist through winter, providing a bold splash of color to the landscape. The berries are highly attractive to birds and add interest to gardens during the colder months.
A cultivar derived from the North American native Ilex verticillata, ‘Red Sprite' is specifically bred for its smaller size and dense growth habit. Its manageable stature makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, borders, or as part of a winter-themed planting. The plant’s seasonal appeal and wildlife-friendly attributes make it a favorite among gardeners.
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Family: Aquifoliaceae
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Width: 2 to 3 feet
Foliage color: Green, turning yellow-green in fall
Flower color: Inconspicuous greenish-white
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Moderate to high
Maintenance: Low; prune in late winter to shape and remove dead wood
Growing zone: USDA Zones 3 to 9
Wildlife attractors: Birds (attracted to the bright red berries), pollinatorsThis plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden and at the Washington Park Arboretum.
