What is the scientific name for Winterberry Holly?

The scientific name for Winterberry Holly is Ilex verticillata. This plant is a deciduous holly species native to North America and is particularly noted for its bright red berries that persist into the winter months, adding color to the landscape when many other plants are bare.

The name Ilex refers to the genus of the plant, which includes several species of hollies, while verticillata indicates the specific characteristics of Winterberry Holly, which typically features a more open growth habit and is found in wetland areas. Winterberry is especially valued in landscaping for its ornamental qualities and as a food source for birds.

The other options represent different species within the holly family or other plants. For instance, Ilex glabra, known as Inkberry, has evergreen foliage and is adapted to different growing conditions compared to Winterberry. Ilex cornuta, or Chinese Holly, is also evergreen and commonly used for hedges. Illicium parviflorum is known as the Yellow Anise and is not a holly but rather part of a different family entirely. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why Ilex verticillata is correctly associated with Winterberry Holly.