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Description
Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold, also known as Winterberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Holly family. It is native to North America and is found in wetlands, swamps, and along streams. This shrub features bright golden-yellow berries that add color to your winter garden. The berries persist on the stems long after the leaves have fallen, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Appearance
The Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a rounded habit with bright green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The shrub produces small white flowers in the summer, which turn into bright golden-yellow berries in the fall. The berries remain on the branches throughout the winter, providing a beautiful contrast against the snowy landscape. The bark is gray and smooth, adding to the plant’s winter interest.
Care Guide
The Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold prefers moist, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in zones 3 to 9. Here are some care tips:
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
- Winterberry is tolerant of wet soil but does not like standing water.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and scale insects. Regular pruning and good air circulation can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
The Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold is native to North America and is found in wetlands, swamps, and along streams. It is a popular choice for landscape design due to its beautiful bright golden-yellow berries that persist on the stems throughout the winter.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I prune my Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Can I grow Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold in a container?
A: Yes, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide adequate drainage.
Q: Can I use Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold as a hedge?
A: Yes, it can be used as a hedge, but it may require regular pruning to maintain its shape.
Q: How often should I water my Ilex Verticillata Winter Gold?
A: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Afterward, water only during periods of drought.
Related Plants
- Ilex Verticillata
- Ilex opaca
- Ilex aquifolium
- Ilex glabra
References
- “Winterberry Holly,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed October 19, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279367&isprofile=0.
- “Ilex Verticillata ‘Winter Gold’,” Chicago Botanic Garden, accessed October 19, 2021, https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plantcollections/plantfinder/ilex_verticillata_winter_gold–winter_gold_winterberry_holly.
