There are few more perfect common names in the native plant world than "winterberry" because it's true, it has berries in the winter. But there's more to love than just a well-chosen name. These easy-to-maintain shrubs are beloved landscape staples due to their profusion of brilliant red berries that can persist well into January, lighting up the winter garden and providing nourishing food for our favorite feathered friends, especially robins. 'Red Sprite' was selected for its small stature and large, spectacular berries, so it's a perfect choice for a smaller garden.
Ensure you have a male cultivar (‘Jim Dandy’) planted nearby to provide pollination and guarantee maximum berry production.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; medium to wet soil
Size: 2.5'-3' tall
Zone: 3 - 9
Wildlife Value: Flowers attractive to small bees and flies; berries provide an excellent winter food source for birds
Photos: Jason Wirtz, David Korbonits