Ilex verticillata Mr. Poppins®

The low, mounding form of this compact Winterberry is densely covered with dark green leaves and grows just 3-4′ tall. Ilex verticillata Mr. Poppins® serves as the perfect pollinator for the female variety Berry Poppins® (item #63404), and thrives in damp areas in mixed borders. A Proven Winners® variety. 'FarrowMrP' PP 25,834

Like most Hollies, Ilex verticillata has separate male and female plants. While only female plants can produce berries, male plants are necessary to provide pollen for their flowers. Gardeners usually give female plants a prominent spot and tuck the male plants in an out-of-the-way corner.

The genus Ilex includes some 350 species, best known for its spiny, evergreen forms with red berries. It's much harder to find selections of our deciduous, native species, I. verticillata. In the wild, it is often found in wet soil, but it also grows well in average soil and tolerates a fair measure of drought once established.

For more information on Ilex care, click on Growing Guide.