Ilex verticillata Wildfire™ has multiple seasons of interest and high wildlife appeal. Commonly called Wildfire™ Winterberry, this shrub features pure white flowers in spring. In the fall, Wildfire™ produces large, pretty red berries that serve as food for birds in the winter. The branches can be cut to make cheerful holiday displays. The berries and flowers are offset by lush, dark green foliage.
This is a female dwarf holly that has a compact, rounded form that reaches 6 – 7 feet high and 7 – 8 feet wide. To set fruit, it requires a male holly plant such as Jim Dandy or Southern Gentleman. It tolerates wet, boggy conditions, salt, and clay soil. It is deciduous and will lose its leaves in winter. Use it as a windbreaker hedge to attract birds, or upgrade your curb appeal with Wildfire™ in a foundation planting or along your driveway.
Wildfire™ Winterberry Care
This shrub prefers full to partial sun positions. It tolerates a variety of soil types including compacted soil and boggy conditions. It requires an acidic pH between 5 – 6 and may languish in alkaline soils. Water Wildfire™ regularly during the growing season for best performance and to establish a strong root system. Topdress the root zone with a layer of organic compost. Fertilizer is not necessary to keep this shrub healthy and happy.
Wildfire™ does not need to be pruned; however, you can lightly shape it in early spring with pruning clippers.
Wildfire™ Winterberry Spacing
To create a tight hedge of this winterberry, space these shrubs approximately 6 feet apart, center on center. Increase the spacing to 8 feet apart if a gap between shrubs is desired.
Wildfire™ Winterberry Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 – 8
Plant Type: Bushes
Light Exposure: Full Sun (At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)
Mature Height: 6 – 7 Feet
Mature Spread: 7 – 8 Feet
Spacing: 7 – 8 Feet
Habit: Upright
Flower Color(s): White
Flower Description:
Bloom Period:
Foliage Type: Deciduous
Foliage Color(s): Green
Foliage Description: Dark Green
Seasonal Interest: 4 Season Interest
Watering: Average
Resists: Deer
Tolerates: Drought, Salt
Attracts: Birds
Container Role:
Uses: Borders, Hedges & Privacy, Mass Planting, Wetland Areas & Ponds, Wildlife Gardens
