As part of our Cycles of Gaia ecological calendar project, we’ve been sharing an insight each month on one of the member species of the calendar, or some other ecological element of the Northeast Coastal Zone (southern New England) drawn out by the calendar. This month, in celebration of the yuletide holiday season, we focus on the Winterberry Holly.
Winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata), a native deciduous shrub, is a striking feature of Connecticut and broader New England’s landscapes in December. Known for its vibrant red berries that persist well into winter, winterberry serves as both a visual delight and an essential ecological resource. Its bright berries become particularly prominent after the shrub’s leaves drop in the fall, standing out vividly against the muted tones of the winter landscape. This native plant thrives in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forest edges, and moist fields, making it a common sight across the Northeast Coastal Zone.
Winterberry is not only beautiful but also highly resilient. It tolerates a range of soil conditions, preferring moist, acidic soils, making it a versatile aspect of many landscapes. The plant’s ability to withstand seasonal flooding and fluctuating water levels further emphasizes its adaptability. As a dioecious species, it requires both male and female plants to produce its signature berries, encouraging biodiversity by necessitating multiple shrubs in close proximity.
Ecologically, winterberry plays a critical role in supporting local wildlife. Birds such as robins, cedar waxwings, and bluebirds rely on its berries as a vital food source during the colder months, when other options are scarce. The berries are adapted to provide high-energy sustenance to these birds. In addition to its value for wildlife, winterberry also attracts pollinators in the spring with its inconspicuous but nectar-rich flowers, highlighting its year-round importance to regional ecosystems.
While winterberry berries are toxic to humans, the plant has medicinal uses. Traditionally, Native Americans have utilized its bark to treat fevers, internal parasites, and liver ailments, and applied it externally for skin disorders, often combining it with slippery elm bark. Tea made from the bark has served as an emetic and remedy for diarrhea, while a root preparation has been used to ease hay fever. Additionally, dried leaves can be brewed into a caffeine-free tea.1
For gardeners and conservationists, winterberry offers a low-maintenance and visually striking addition to landscapes. It requires minimal care, thriving in both sun and partial shade, and is highly adaptable to the area’s diverse soils and climate. This December, Winterberry Holly not only adds festive cheer to natural and cultivated spaces but also underscores the importance of native plants in preserving local biodiversity.
Endnote
1) These statements come from Mother Earth Living, not personal experience, so venture cautiously when using this plant. According to that article, Yerba Mate is also a holly (and in the same genus). So perhaps the winterberry leaves are one of the hollies that can be made into tea. But always be careful when experimenting with new wild foods, especially when getting information from the web and not from an Earth skills mentor.
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