Ilex verticillata ‘Red Sprite’, commonly known as Red Sprite Winterberry, is a compact cultivar of the native deciduous holly known for its brilliant red berries and strong wildlife value. Reaching just 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, this slow-growing shrub is ideal for smaller landscapes, foundation beds, or mass plantings. Inconspicuous white flowers appear in spring and are followed by clusters of vivid berries in fall and winter, which persist through snow and provide essential winter food for birds. For fruit set, a compatible male pollinator (like ‘Jim Dandy’) is required nearby.

Why choose ‘Red Sprite’ Winterberry:

• Brilliant berries: Bright red fruit lasts through winter and attracts birds

• Compact size: Perfect for small gardens, borders, and naturalized groupings

• Native cultivar: Offers strong ecological value for pollinators and wildlife

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, acidic soils; tolerates clay and wet conditions

• Maintenance: Minimal; plant a male pollinator for fruit production

Designs for your garden:

• Wildlife gardens: Provides vital winter food and dense cover for birds

• Rain gardens: Thrives in moist or wet areas

• Foundation plantings: Compact form and showy fruit add structure and seasonal color

Ecological benefits:

• Native cultivar: Supports native insects, birds, and beneficial pollinators

• Bird-friendly: Berries feed songbirds throughout the winter

• Adaptable and resilient: Performs well in a range of garden conditions