Ilex Verticillata Wildfire

Description

Ilex Verticillata Wildfire, commonly known as Wildfire Winterberry, is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America. It is part of the holly family and is known for its vibrant red berries that persist throughout winter.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Wildfire Winterberry shrub grows up to 6-8 feet tall and wide. It has a compact, rounded habit and bright green, glossy foliage that turns yellow in the fall. The shrub blooms small white flowers in late spring or early summer, which later develop into bright red berries that persist throughout winter. The berries are a valuable food source for birds and add a pop of color to winter landscapes.

Care Guide

Wildfire Winterberry is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:

Water

Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the first year of growth. Once established, Wildfire Winterberry is drought tolerant and can withstand occasional dry spells.

Fertilization

Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Avoid fertilizing after July to prevent late-season growth that may not harden off before winter.

Soil

Wildfire Winterberry prefers acidic, well-draining soil. If your soil is alkaline, amend it with peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH.

Sunlight

Wildfire Winterberry thrives in full sun to part shade. However, it produces the most berries in full sun.

Hardiness Zones

Wildfire Winterberry is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Wildfire Winterberry is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may occasionally suffer from the following problems:

Leaf spot

Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Spider mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Habitat

Wildfire Winterberry is native to eastern North America, where it grows in wetlands, swamps, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, acidic soil and can tolerate periodic flooding.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Wildfire Winterberry grow in containers?

A: Yes, Wildfire Winterberry can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and the soil is kept moist.

Q: Does Wildfire Winterberry need a pollinator to produce berries?

A: No, Wildfire Winterberry is self-fertile and does not require a pollinator to produce berries.

Q: Can Wildfire Winterberry tolerate salt spray?

A: No, Wildfire Winterberry is not salt tolerant and should not be planted in areas with salt spray.

Q: When is the best time to prune Wildfire Winterberry?

A: Prune Wildfire Winterberry in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Related Plants

• Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold
• Ilex Verticillata Berry Nice
• Ilex Verticillata Red Sprite
• Ilex Verticillata Sparkleberry

References

• “Wildfire Winterberry.” Proven Winners, www.provenwinners.com/plants/ilex/wildfire-winterberry-ilex-verticillata. Accessed 12 Jan. 2022.
• “Ilex verticillata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276708. Accessed 12 Jan. 2022.
• “Winterberry (Ilex verticillata).” University of Illinois Extension, extension.illinois.edu/winterberry. Accessed 12 Jan. 2022.