Red Sprite Winterberry

If you are after a dwarf shrub that provides year-round interest, the Red Sprite Winterberry could be just what you are looking for. Also known as Ilex verticillata 'Red Sprite', this compact and slow-growing winterberry is perfect for smaller gardens. With its large red berries in winter, small green-white flowers in spring, and glossy green foliage in summer, this shrub is eye-catching at all times of the year. 

Remaining a neat 3 to 4 feet high, the Red Sprite Winterberry is ideally suited to growing in a border, whether on its own or in a group. It can even be used to form an informal low hedge to separate garden areas or rooms. This winterberry is tough and cold hardy to USDA zone 3-8. Generally, disease- and pest-free, this low-maintenance shrub can be left to pretty much fend for itself.

Red Sprite Winterberry Care

The Red Sprite Winterberry can be grown in either full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of most soil types including clay, as long as it is acidic. This winterberry prefers moist or wet soil and can even handle some boggy conditions. As an acid-loving shrub, it can be fed with an ericaceous feed as per the manufacturer’s guidelines to keep it healthy and encourage new growth. This is a female plant and requires a male winterberry, such as Jim Dandy, Mr. Poppins, Apollo, and Little Goblin Guy, to help produce its stunning red berries. 

As a slow-growing shrub, the Red Sprite Winterberry needs little pruning except for some shaping, which can be performed in early spring. This winterberry does not tolerate drought well, and thorough watering during hot and dry periods is needed.

Red Sprite Winterberry Spacing

In time, this Red Sprite Winterberry can grow to a maximum height of 3-4 feet tall with a 4-5 feet spread. For an impressive winter display, this shrub can be planted out in a group with each plant spaced 3-5 feet apart.