Harvesting of Ilex verticillata 'Goldfinch' (winterberry) typically begins in October and continues through December.
winterberry
Ilex verticillata 'Goldfinch'
Winterberry, also known as Ilex verticillata 'Goldfinch', is a shrub native to North America. The plant has crimson red berries which add a pop of vibrant color to winter landscapes. Goldfinch has a compact branching habit and prefers bright sun and indirect shade. This beautiful shrub blooms in late spring to early summer with small whitish-green flowers that attract birds and butterflies. It can reach a height and width of 6-8 feet, and its distinct rounded shape makes it a great choice for hedges or specimen plantings. Winterberry is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is sure to add seasonal color to any garden.
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 9
Flowers:
Greenish-white Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Fruits:
gold,yellow,orange Fruits Ready In Fall
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
gold,green,yellow
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Winterberry (Ilex verticillata 'Goldfinch') should be watered deeply once a week while the soil is dry, but not soggy. Watering frequency may vary depending on soil type, temperature, and light levels. During the hottest months of summer, an additional shallow watering may be needed because of the increased evaporation. During the winter, water only when the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure to use slow, deep watering for the plants to help prevent root rot.
sunlight
Winterberry (Ilex verticillata 'Goldfinch') needs 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day, preferably in the morning or early afternoon and in the spring through autumn months. Winterberry prefers 1 full day of sunshine during the summer months. Winterberry plants do not perform well if placed in full sun all day. It is best to keep this plant species in partial shade rather than full sun when possible.
pruning
Winterberry (Ilex verticillata 'Goldfinch') should be pruned annually in late winter or very early in the spring. Make sure all of the pruning cuts are made while the plant is still dormant. Pruning of this particular plant should focus on clearing out the older, thicker woody stems in order to produce more new growth. Approximately 1-third of the oldest stems should be cut out at the base of the bush. The remaining old growth should then be judiciously thinned out to reduce crowding. Don't forget to prune out any dead or diseased branches as well.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit
Starts Flowering
Winterberry typically starts flowering in June.
