In-Depth Description
Winterberry is native to the eastern U.S., and can be a great addition to any landscape, as it produces bright red berries that persist through the entire winter and into spring. Unlike other familiar holly bushes, Winterberry is a deciduous shrub and loses its leaves in fall. Its red berries come to the forefront as winter arrives and attention is drawn to the plant’s fruit, with no foliage to obstruct the viewer’s vision. Winterberry is notable for its berries being attractive to a variety of birds and other wildlife. It also provides a cover, nesting site for birds, and is a larval host for Henry’s Elfin butterfly. By planting Winterberry, you are inviting a host of animals in your landscape including blue birds, robins, cedar waxwings, deer, mice and raccoons.
Native alternative for many invasive plants, including Burning Bush, Japanese Barberry, Multiflora Rose and Autumn Olive.
Northern Cardinal Female, photo credit: Litchfield Hills Audubon Society.
