Catberry
Ilex mucronata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
36"–96" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CT, IL, IN, MA and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Winterberry holly is a deciduous shrub that produces bright red berries in fall and winter after the leaves drop. It grows 3-8 feet tall with an upright, somewhat open branching structure and requires both male and female plants for berry production.
In an HOA neighborhood
Catberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Looks bare in winter after berries are consumed
- May appear sparse when young
Wildlife value
The small spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The persistent red berries are an important winter food source for birds including robins, cedar waxwings, and woodpeckers.
Common questions
- How much sun does Catberry need?
- Catberry grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Catberry bloom?
- Catberry blooms in May and June.
- Where is Catberry native?
- Catberry (Ilex mucronata) is native to CT, IL, IN, MA and 13 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Catberry attract?
- Catberry draws bees and beetles.
- Is Catberry HOA-friendly?
- Catberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Catberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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