Quick answer: Common winterberry (Ilex verticillata) is native to 32 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: User:SB_Johnny, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | High water, Dry-Wet |
| Soil | Sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay, acidic pH |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jul |
| Height | 6-10 ft, up to 20 ft |
| Wildlife value | Cover, nesting site, nectar for insects, fruit for birds, larval host for Henry's Elfin |
All Ilex species may be somewhat toxic if ingested; sensitivity varies with age/weight/condition; children most vulnerable
none noted (described as adaptable naturalizer, not invasive)
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Common winterberry
Where is Common winterberry native?
Common winterberry (Ilex verticillata) is native to 32 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Common winterberry bloom?
Common winterberry blooms Apr-Jul. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Common winterberry need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: High water, Dry-Wet. Soil: Sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay, acidic pH. Mature height: 6-10 ft, up to 20 ft.
Is Common winterberry good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Cover, nesting site, nectar for insects, fruit for birds, larval host for Henry's Elfin.
Is Common winterberry deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Common winterberry is drought-tolerant, tolerates shade and handles wet soil.
Is Common winterberry toxic?
All Ilex species may be somewhat toxic if ingested; sensitivity varies with age/weight/condition; children most vulnerable.
Where can I buy real Common winterberry seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Ilex verticillata on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Common winterberry.
- Northern spicebush Lindera benzoin
- American holly Ilex opaca
- Eastern cottonwood Populus deltoides
- Bur oak Quercus macrocarpa
- Green ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica
- Common hoptree Ptelea trifoliata
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.