Red-berried trees add vibrant splashes of color to landscapes, especially during autumn and winter months. Whether you’re a gardener, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about the plants in your area, this guide covers 23 distinct trees known for their red berries. Each entry includes key identification tips and interesting facts to help you recognize and appreciate these striking species.
1. American Holly (Ilex opaca)
American Holly is a classic evergreen tree, widely recognized by its glossy, spiny leaves and bright red berries that persist through winter. These berries are a vital food source for birds but are toxic to humans. The tree can grow up to 50 feet tall and is often used as festive decoration during the holiday season.
2. Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia)
Red Chokeberry is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America. It produces clusters of shiny red berries in late summer, which turn darker as they mature. The berries are astringent but attract birds and wildlife, and the tree’s brilliant red fall foliage is another identifying feature.
3. Winterberry (Ilex verticillata)
Winterberry is a deciduous holly species known for its vivid red berries that remain on leafless branches throughout winter. This shrub or small tree thrives in wet soils and is popular in landscaping for winter interest. Unlike American Holly, winterberry loses its leaves, making the berries more visible.
4. European Mountain Ash (Sorbus aucuparia)
Also called Rowan, this tree is common across Europe and parts of North America. It bears clusters of small, round red berries in late summer to fall. The berries are mildly toxic to humans but favored by birds, and the tree’s pinnate leaves and white spring flowers help with identification.
5. Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia)
Known as California holly, Toyon is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the western U.S. It produces abundant bright red berries in winter that feed birds and were used by Native Americans for food. Its leathery leaves and dense, bushy form make it distinctive in chaparral habitats.
6. Crabapple (Malus spp.)
Many crabapple trees produce small red fruits that resemble berries but are technically pomes. These fruits persist into winter and provide food for birds and mammals. Crabapples have showy spring blossoms and a wide variety of leaf shapes, making them a popular landscape choice.
7. Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
Red Osier Dogwood is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its striking red stems and clusters of bright red berries. The berries appear in late summer and persist into winter, attracting birds. It commonly grows in wetlands and riparian zones, identifiable by its opposite leaves and white flowers.
8. Bittersweet Nightshade (Solanum dulcamara)
Although technically a vine, Bittersweet Nightshade can climb trees and has red berries that are toxic to humans. The berries develop from yellow flowers and persist into winter, providing food for some bird species. Its climbing habit and purple flowers help distinguish it from other red-berried plants.
9. Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)
Hawthorns are a diverse group of small trees and shrubs bearing bright red berries called haws. These berries mature in late summer or fall and are an important food source for wildlife. The trees are identifiable by their thorny branches, lobed leaves, and clusters of white blossoms in spring.
10. Coralberry (Symphoricarpos orbiculatus)
Coralberry is a shrub producing clusters of small, round red berries through fall and winter. It thrives in a variety of soils and is often found in woodlands and prairies. The berries are attractive to birds but not edible for humans, and the plant’s arching branches and oval leaves aid identification.
11. Red Buckeye (Aesculus pavia)
Red Buckeye is a small deciduous tree or large shrub native to the southeastern U.S. It produces clusters of tubular red flowers in spring, followed by greenish-brown seed capsules with red seeds inside. While the seeds aren’t true berries, the tree’s bright red floral displays and compound leaves make it easy to spot.
12. Nandina (Nandina domestica)
Also called Heavenly Bamboo, Nandina is an evergreen shrub with delicate, bamboo-like leaves and bright red berries that persist through winter. Native to East Asia, it’s widely used in ornamental landscaping. The berries are toxic if ingested by humans and pets but provide winter food for birds.
13. Firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea)
Firethorn is a thorny evergreen shrub or small tree producing dense clusters of small, bright red berries in fall and winter. The berries are mildly toxic but attract birds and add ornamental value. Its glossy leaves and white spring flowers help with identification.
14. Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa)
Red Elderberry is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to North America, identifiable by its compound leaves and dense clusters of red berries. The berries mature in summer and are toxic when raw but can be cooked for jams or jellies. The tree’s large white flower clusters in spring are also distinctive.
15. American Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens)
American Bittersweet is a woody vine that climbs trees and fences, producing striking orange-red berries encased in yellow capsules. The berries mature in fall and persist through winter. Its twining habit and green leaves help differentiate it from invasive Asian bittersweet species.
16. Scarlet Hawthorn (Crataegus coccinea)
A species of hawthorn with particularly bright red berries, the Scarlet Hawthorn is native to the eastern U.S. It features lobed leaves, sharp thorns, and clusters of white flowers in spring. The berries provide food for birds and add vivid color to the landscape in fall and winter.
17. Yew (Taxus baccata)
Yew is an evergreen conifer producing distinctive red, fleshy arils that look like berries but contain toxic seeds. The tree has dark green needles and a dense growth habit. Yews are widely used in landscaping and hedgerows but should be handled with care due to their toxicity.
18. Hollyleaf Cherry (Prunus ilicifolia)
Native to California, this evergreen tree produces bright red cherry-like fruits that resemble berries. The leaves have sharp spiny edges similar to holly, which is reflected in its name. The fruits are edible for wildlife and humans when fully ripe and the tree is valued for drought tolerance.
19. Red Osier Maple (Acer rubrum)
Red Maple is a common North American tree known for its brilliant red fall foliage and red seeds, often mistaken as berries. While not true berries, the samaras’ reddish color and abundance add to the tree’s visual appeal. It thrives in a variety of soils and is widely planted for shade and ornamental use.
20. Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo)
Native to the Mediterranean and parts of western Europe, the Strawberry Tree produces round, rough-textured red fruits that look like strawberries. The fruits are edible and sweet when ripe, and the tree features evergreen leaves and white bell-shaped flowers. It’s prized in gardens for year-round interest.
21. Red-berried Elder (Sambucus racemosa)
Closely related to the red elderberry, this species also produces red berries in dense clusters during summer. It is found in temperate regions and has compound leaves and white flower clusters. The berries are toxic when raw but used in cooking after proper preparation.
22. Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata)
Japanese Holly is an evergreen shrub or small tree with small, dark green leaves and bright red berries that persist into winter. It’s commonly used as a hedge plant in temperate climates. The berries are toxic to humans but highly attractive to birds.
23. Red-berried Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis)
This deciduous shrub features arching branches with small, glossy leaves and clusters of bright red berries in late fall. The berries attract birds and often persist into winter. Cotoneaster is commonly used in landscaping for ground cover and erosion control.
How to Choose
When selecting a red-berried tree or shrub, consider your climate zone, soil type, and intended use—whether for ornamental appeal, wildlife support, or edible purposes. Some species, like American Holly or Winterberry, are evergreen and provide winter interest, while others offer stunning fall foliage colors. Toxicity is an important factor if you have children or pets, as many red berries look attractive but are poisonous if ingested. Also, check mature size and growth habit to ensure the plant fits your available space. Finally, consider wildlife value; many red-berried trees support local bird populations during scarce winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all red berries on trees safe to eat?
No, many red berries are toxic to humans and pets despite their appealing color. Always properly identify a plant before consuming its fruit.
Why do some trees produce red berries in winter?
Red berries often persist into winter to provide a vital food source for birds when other food is scarce, aiding seed dispersal.
Can I plant red-berried trees in my garden for wildlife?
Yes, many red-berried species attract birds and other wildlife, making them excellent choices for naturalized or wildlife-friendly gardens.
How do I distinguish between similar red-berried species?
Pay attention to leaf shape, berry arrangement, growth habit, and flowering time. Consulting regional field guides with pictures can help.
Do red berries attract insects or pests?
While berries mainly attract birds, some species can also attract insects or pests, so monitor plants regularly for health.
Are red berries on evergreens different from those on deciduous trees?
Often yes; many evergreen hollies produce persistent red berries on leafed branches, while deciduous species show berries on bare branches, making identification easier.
Final Thoughts
Red-berried trees and shrubs contribute striking color and ecological value to landscapes, especially during colder months. By understanding the unique characteristics of each species, you can better appreciate their role in nature and make informed choices for your garden or outdoor space. Whether you favor the classic American Holly, the versatile Crabapple, or the eye-catching Firethorn, these 23 species offer a diverse palette of red berries to explore and enjoy throughout the year.
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