Winterberry (Ilex vomitoria, Hort. Kew. 1: 170 (1789))

Family: Aquifoliaceae

Author: Aiton

Bibliography: Hort. Kew. 1: 170 (1789)

Year: 1789

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ilex

Vegetable: False

Observations: U.S.A. to Mexico (Chiapas), W. Cuba

Description

The Winterberry is an exceptional plant species that belongs to the family of Aquifoliaceae. This shrub, known scientifically as Ilex vomitoria, is a notable addition to the flora of North America. Its origins encompass a vast range, stretching from the United States to Mexico, reaching as far south as Chiapas, as well as the western regions of Cuba.

This plant was first detailed in the late 18th century, with its scientific documentation appearing in 1789 by the botanist Aiton in the renowned publication Hortus Kewensis. The Winterberry is characterized by its striking berries and durable foliage, making it a captivating subject for both horticultural enthusiasts and botanists.

Thriving particularly well in wetland habitats, the Winterberry is celebrated for its ability to bring vibrant color to otherwise desolate winter landscapes. Unlike other members of the Aquifoliaceae family, its bright red berries provide a splash of life when most other plants have succumbed to the cold. These berries serve not only as a visual delight but also as a crucial food source for various bird species during the harsh winter months.

Despite its common name, the Ilex vomitoria has an interesting cultural history. Indigenous peoples of North America historically utilized parts of this plant for medicinal purposes, recognizing its value beyond its ornamental appeal. However, it is essential to note that, contrary to what one might infer from its scientific name, the plant has no emetic properties; this misconception likely arose from misinterpretations of its traditional uses.

The Winterberry holds significant ecological and ornamental value, standing out among the diverse species of the Aquifoliaceae family. Its capacity to adapt to varying climates within its native range, from the temperate regions of the U.S.A. to the tropical climates in parts of Mexico and Cuba, underscores the plant’s versatility and resilience. Whether for its practical uses or its beauty, the Winterberry continues to be a plant of considerable interest in both historical and contemporary botanical studies.

Common Names

Eng: winterberry, yaupon, yaupon holly, bermuda holly
En: Winterberry, Yaupon, Yaupon Holly, Bermuda holly

Synonyms

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Cuba (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• Bermuda (introduced)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Jan 7, 2018 by Donald Awbrey (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 25, 2016 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 28, 2017 by 1 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 28, 2017 by 1 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 28, 2017 by 1 (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Oct 28, 2017 by 1 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 28, 2017 by 1 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 28, 2017 by 1 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 28, 2017 by 1 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 28, 2017 by 1 (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 6, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 6, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 26, 2020 by Jean marie Duquenoy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 29, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 25, 2022 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Mar 29, 2016 by EOL − birdladymilam (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 1, 2021 by Zoé Benben (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 22, 2016 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 8, 2015 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 27, 2020 by Mallory Mallory (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Nov 12, 2015 by EOL − Bob O’Kennon (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 26, 2020 by Jean marie Duquenoy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 25, 2022 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 2022 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 2022 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Apr 15, 2021 by Brad Kelley (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5414250)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:83863-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ilex vomitoria Aiton)

Specifications

Growth form: Multiple Stem

Growth habit: Tree, Shrub

Growth rate: Slow

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.0

Ph minimum: 4.5