Proven Winners Winterberry Holly True Heavy®

About this plant

Proven Winners Winterberry Holly True Heavy® (Ilex verticillata Color Choice ‘Spravy Berry Heavy’) is a true showstopper, renowned for its incredible wintertime display. This deciduous shrub, a female cultivar, produces an abundance of oversized, brilliant red berries that cling to its bare branches long after the leaves have fallen, providing essential winter interest and a vital food source for birds. Its dense, upright habit makes it an excellent choice for foundation plantings, massings, or as a striking specimen plant. Combine it with an appropriate male pollinator, such as 'Southern Gentleman' or 'Mr. Poppins,' to ensure a bountiful berry production. The True Heavy® cultivar is a superior choice for landscapes where reliable, heavy fruiting and vibrant winter impact are paramount. Its ease of care and adaptability make it a favorite for both experienced gardeners and those new to the joys of winterberry.

Care & maintenance

Requires a male pollinator (such as 'Southern Gentleman' or 'Mr. Poppins') for berry production; one male can pollinate several female plants. Prune after the danger of frost has passed in late winter or early spring to shape and remove any dead or crossing branches. Minimal pruning is generally needed to maintain its attractive form.