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by Lydia Holley February 12, 2024
In winter, berries can be just as colorful as blooms, and will generally last longer. Hollies come to mind when winter berries are discussed, and there are many types of hollies to choose from. Along with or instead of the usual yaupon holly, consider getting a blue holly, inkberry, or winterberry to add to your landscape.
There are also several types of cotoneasters, so depending upon the height and width desired, you may wish to grow cranberry cotoneaster, little-leaf cotoneaster, chinese rockspray, or bearberry cotoneaster. They are all evergreen, so in addition to berries, you can enjoy their foliage throughout the winter.
Heavenly bamboo is famous for its bright berries in winter. A native to China and Japan, it is listed as invasive in some states. There are sterile cultivars available that have colorful foliage but no berries.
Pyracantha is another showy old-fashioned shrub considered invasive in some states, but it has gone out of favor mostly because of its vicious thorns. I do not have one in my garden currently, but years ago I did, and a flock of cedar waxwings visited it annually in early spring. Nowadays, they devour the berries of my possumhaw holly.
If you are looking for blue berries, consider Ashe juniper. The female develops berries and the male makes the pollen, so if you have an allergy to this plant, blame the male. To tell the difference, look closely. According to Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, males will have a “burnt gold appearance in winter.” Native to Central and West Texas, Ashe juniper is the host for at least one butterfly species. Birds will also feed on its berries and one particular bird uses its bark exclusively to build its nest.
If you add a berry-producing plant to your landscape, no matter which one you decide upon, consider making certain you can see it through a window. That way, it will brighten your spirits even when the weather keeps you inside.
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