ilex

Ilex Berry Poppins and Mr. Poppins are two cultivars of the deciduous holly species Ilex verticillata, commonly known as winterberry holly. Both varieties are dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female, and both are required for the female plants to produce berries. While Berry Poppins is a female cultivar known for its abundant red berries that persist through the winter, Mr. Poppins is a male cultivar selected for its ability to provide pollination for the female plants, facilitating the fruiting process.

The presence of both Berry Poppins and Mr. Poppins in proximity is essential for the production of berries on the female plants. The male cultivar, Mr. Poppins, produces inconspicuous flowers that provide pollen necessary for fertilizing the female flowers of Berry Poppins, resulting in the development of berries. Planting these cultivars together ensures successful pollination and the formation of the distinctive red berries for which winterberry holly is known.

Companion plants for Berry Poppins and Mr. Poppins typically include other native or cold-hardy species that thrive in similar conditions. Species such as wintergreen, inkberry holly, and dwarf fothergilla can complement the winter interest provided by the hollies while creating a visually appealing and diverse landscape.

Height: 3′ – 4′

Width: 3′ – 4′

Watering and soil: Moist, wet soil.

Exposure: Sun to part shade (four hours sun minimum).

Varieties: Berry Poppin, Mr Poppin

See: Shrubs and Roses

Category: Sun Perennials – Sun Plants – Sunny Plants – Shrubs – Deciduous Shrubs – Winterberry near me – Ilex – Holly