Ilex Southern Gentleman
Ilex Southern Gentleman (Winterberry) is a vigorous, upright native deciduous shrub with a rounded habit and dark green foliage that transforms to yellow-green and purple-bronze tones in fall, adding seasonal interest to the landscape. As a male holly, Ilex Southern Gentleman does not produce fruit but serves as an essential pollinator for nearby female winterberry plants, ensuring abundant berry production. Thriving in moist, slightly acidic, well-drained soils, Ilex Southern Gentleman tolerates wet or boggy conditions, making it ideal for rain gardens, naturalized borders, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. Native Ilex verticillata, the species of this winterberry, provides food for birds and other animals, supports pollinators, and acts as a host for moths and the Henry’s Elfin Butterfly, though its berries are toxic to humans. Gardeners value Ilex Southern Gentleman for its strong growth, ornamental fall foliage, and role in supporting female plants for vibrant winter berry displays.
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Type: |
Shrub |
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Origins: |
Eastern N. America; north GA Native |
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Height: |
6' - 8' |
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Spread: |
6’ - 8' |
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Spacing: |
7’ |
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USDA Hardiness Zone: |
3 - 8 |
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Culture: |
Full Sun, Part Sun |
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Bloom Color: |
White |
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Season of Interest: |
Fall, Year-Round |
MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance. Water regularly. Well-drained soils essential. Potential issues include mites, scale, leaf spot, rot, and mildew. Susceptible to leaf scorch or drop if not protected from afternoon sun in hotter climates.
LANDSCAPE USES: Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Hedges, Foundation Plantings, and Containers.
COMPANION PLANTS: Azalea, Blueberry, Camellia
IMAGE: James H. Miller & Ted Bodner, Southern Weed Science Society, Bugwood.org, Ilex glabra 1120530, CC BY 3.0
*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.
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Estimated Shipping Time: Your order may ship immediately, however most orders ship in 1-2 business days (we do not ship on weekends) from date of purchase. Once your order is shipped, you'll receive an email with a tracking number.
If you ordered more than one plant, you will receive multiple shipments. This is to get your plants to you as soon as possible. However, shipping schedules can change due to unforeseen events, such as unpredictable weather. We appreciate your patience.
