Black-alder
Ilex verticillata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
60"–180" H × 60"–180" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, wasps, flies
Winterberry is a native deciduous holly that produces clusters of bright red berries on bare branches in fall and winter. This shrub grows 5-15 feet tall and wide, preferring moist to wet soils and partial sun conditions. The berries provide exceptional winter interest and persist through most of the cold season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Black-alder is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Requires consistent moisture which may need irrigation in drier locations
Wildlife value
Host plant for Henry's Elfin, Brown Elfin.
Flowers attract bees, beetles, wasps, and flies during summer blooming period. The bright red berries are highly valued by birds including robins, cedar waxwings, and mockingbirds throughout winter.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Black-alder fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.