2005 ASCFG Fresh Cut Flower of the Year
Top interior designers say that every room needs a splash of red. There is no easier way to introduce a little dazzling red to your home than with a few stems of Ilex 'Winter Red'. The brilliant color coupled with the striking architecture of these branches will provide just the right amount of drama for any room.
Accolades are nothing new when it comes to 'Winter Red' This multi stemmed North American native is a winner of multiple awards. Available anytime from October through January with a profusion of large 3/8 inch fruits covering the stems. Plants are cold hardy in Zones 3 to 9. spaced 3 to 5 ft or wider in the field and propagated by cuttings. Male and female flowers are on separate plants. Females are desired for berries but males are needed nearby for pollination. Generally requires five years to reach harvestable size.
Harvest when fruit are well colored. Cut stems may last up to 12 weeks in water; however, as with many species the vase life in foam will be much shorter. Stems should be stored dry. Branches may be stored at 32oF for 1 to 3 weeks in moisture-retentive boxes. Cut stems with dried berries persist in the home for months in a dry container.
Contact ASCFG at 440-774-2887 or www.ascfg.org for more information.