Contents
Description
Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite is an ornamental plant that belongs to the holly family. It is native to eastern North America and is commonly known as Winterberry. The plant is deciduous and produces bright red berries that are a popular food source for birds during the winter months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite is a small shrub that can grow up to 5 feet tall and wide. The plant is deciduous and loses its leaves in the fall. In the winter, it produces clusters of bright red berries that contrast with the bare branches. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a serrated edge. The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape.
Care Guide
Water
Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant does not require regular fertilization but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sand.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade but can tolerate shade. However, it will produce fewer berries in shady conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew in humid conditions.
Habitat
Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in wetlands, swamps, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I prune my Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite?
A: Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite can be pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape. It is important not to prune too heavily as it can affect the plant’s ability to produce berries.
Q: Can Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. It will require more frequent watering and fertilization in a container.
Q: How often should I water my Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite?
A: Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the summer or fall.
Related Plants
- Ilex Glabra
- Ilex Opaca
- Ilex Aquifolium
- Ilex Crenata
References
- “Ilex verticillata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286568.
- “Winterberry.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/winterberry.
