A tree that has a bunch of red berries is the Korean Barberry (Berberis koreana), which produces an abundance of bright red berries.
Many trees and shrubs are known for their vibrant red berries, which add significant visual interest to landscapes, especially in fall and winter. While some are true trees, many are large shrubs often mistaken for small trees due to their size and form.
Understanding Red-Berried Plants
Red berries are a common feature among many plant species, serving as a food source for wildlife and providing ornamental value. The persistence of these berries throughout the colder months is a desirable trait for garden appeal.
One notable example is the Korean Barberry.
Korean Barberry (Berberis koreana)
The Korean Barberry is a striking plant known for its prolific berry production. Its characteristics include:
- Abundant Berries: After its blooms, the plant produces a multitude of bright red berries.
- Winter Persistence: These berries often remain on the branches throughout the winter, providing continuous color when other foliage has faded.
- Seasonal Foliage: The medium green leaves of the Korean Barberry transform into stunning maroon and deep purple hues in the fall, complementing the vivid red berries.
| Plant Name | Berry Characteristics | Foliage & Other Features | Berry Persistence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Korean Barberry (Berberis koreana) | Abundance of bright red berries | Medium green leaves turning stunning maroon/deep purple in fall | Often persists through winter |
| American Holly (Ilex opaca) | Classic bright red berries, often dense clusters | Spiny, glossy evergreen leaves; Dioecious (male and female plants needed for berries) | Typically persists through winter |
| Hawthorn (Crataegus species) | Small, apple-like red berries (haws) | Deciduous; Often thorny branches; White flowers in spring | Persists into winter, sometimes until spring |
| Rowan / Mountain Ash (Sorbus species) | Clusters of bright red to orange-red berries | Deciduous; Pinnate leaves; Often upright growth habit | Persists well into winter, popular with birds |
Other Common Trees and Shrubs with Red Berries
Beyond the Korean Barberry, numerous other plants are prized for their red berries. These include:
- Holly (Ilex species): A diverse genus including evergreen types like American Holly and deciduous types like Winterberry Holly. Their bright red berries are a hallmark of winter landscapes.
- Hawthorn (Crataegus species): These small trees or large shrubs produce small, apple-like red berries called "haws." They are often thorny and provide food for birds.
- Rowan or Mountain Ash (Sorbus species): Known for their vibrant clusters of red-orange berries that persist into winter and are a favorite of many bird species.
- Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster species): Many varieties are shrubs, but some grow quite large and are covered in small, bright red berries.
- Dogwood (Cornus species): While some dogwoods have white or blue berries, certain varieties like the Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea) produce red berries, alongside their distinctive red stems.
- Crabapple (Malus species): Many ornamental crabapple varieties produce small, persistent red fruits that can remain on the tree through winter.
When selecting a tree or shrub with red berries, consider factors such as the plant's mature size, light requirements, soil preferences, and whether it requires a male and female plant for berry production (as is the case with many hollies).
