However, deciduous native holly provides winter interestas well. These shrub hollies drop their foliage in the fall to reveal multi-branches of gray stems covered with bright red berries. The berries hold up great in winter bouquets, and birds find them tasty in late winter when they have sweetened up a bit. Fruit set occurs on female plants only, and at least one male plant per five females is needed for pollination. The male can be planted as far as 50' or so from the female and still achieve pollination.
Winterberry hollies prefer slightly acidic soil.
While they tolerate a variety of moisture levels, they are especially happy in poorly drained locations. Winter wetland areas are breathtaking when massed with the haze of winterberries against snow. Male Deciduous Holly 'Jim Dandy' provides the pollen to make 'Red Sprite' pretty in red. Generally, one 'Jim' will pollinate 5 or fewer 'Red Sprites'. This species prospers in poorly or well-drained sites.