Winterberry

Euonymus bungeanus Maxim.

Winterberry is a type of holly that loves the cold! It has bright red berries that stand out against the snowy landscape.

Habitat: Wetlands and forests

Appearance

The Winterberry is a deciduous shrub or small tree with green leaves that turn brilliant red or purple in autumn. It boasts clusters of pink-red, four-lobed capsules that split open to reveal bright orange seeds, creating a stunning visual display.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderCelastralesFamilyCelastraceaeGenusEuonymus

Winterberry

Interesting facts

Birds can safely eat its seeds, which are poisonous for humans.

Despite its name, it’s not related to the common red-berried holly plants!

Its seeds look like tiny orange jewels bursting from bright pink cases!

Sometimes, this plant grows interesting corky 'wings' on its stems.

Special abilities

Winterberry's leaves turn fiery red and purple, attracting attention before falling off the branches.

It has brightly colored orange seeds that emerge from pink capsules, often staying on branches all winter.

Its seeds are eaten by birds, helping spread them, though they are toxic to humans.

Measurements & details

Height: 300-500 cm
Spread: 200-400 cm
Flower Size: 0.5-1 cm
Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
Is Edible: No
Toxicity: Moderate
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Insect

Ecological connections

eats

Common Blackbird

Turdus merula

Consumes the toxic seeds for dispersal.

eats

Bohemian Waxwing

Bombycilla garrulus

Feeds on the persistent seeds during winter.

pollinates

European Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Visits the small flowers for nectar and pollen.

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Winter Interest

Discover plants that shine even when everything else is covered in snow! These special plants bring beauty, color, or texture to the garden during the colder months.

Shrub

These amazing plants are like nature's bushy sculptures, having woody stems that branch out from the ground to create a lovely, full shape.

Cold Hardy

These amazing plants can handle chilly weather and even snow, staying strong and healthy when temperatures drop. They're true winter survivors!

Fruit Bearing

These amazing plants develop fruits, which often contain seeds and are sometimes delicious treats for us or wildlife. They're nature's way of spreading new life!

Fruit Tree

Discover trees that grow delicious fruits, providing a natural bounty of snacks for people and animals alike. Imagine picking an apple right from the branch!

Wetland

These fascinating areas are covered by water for at least part of the year, creating a perfect home for unique plants and animals, like marshes and swamps.