Evergreen shrubs with red berries bring life and vibrancy to your garden, even in the coldest months. These plants not only keep their glossy foliage year-round but also dazzle with clusters of bright red fruits that stand out against the green backdrop.
Adding them to your space ensures that winter doesn’t feel dull but instead brims with color and charm. Many of these shrubs are hardy, low-maintenance, and perfect for hedges, borders, or containers.
Some even provide edible fruits or attract hungry birds, adding both function and beauty. If you’re searching for plants that shine in every season, these eight evergreen shrubs with red berries will instantly transform your landscape.
#1 Bearberry Cotoneaster
Bearberry cotoneaster is a versatile shrub that thrives in zones 5 to 8. It forms a dense mat of glossy green foliage and small white flowers in spring, later followed by brilliant red berries.
This plant is ideal for covering slopes, edging paths, or serving as a ground cover. Once established, it requires little attention beyond occasional pruning to keep its shape.
Plant it in well-draining soil and full to partial sun for the best results. Its year-round presence makes it a reliable choice for gardeners who love neat, colorful landscapes.
#2 Korean Barberry
Korean Barberry adds bold splashes of red with its clusters of egg-shaped berries that dangle gracefully from thorny stems. It grows best in zones 3 to 7 and is perfect for creating hedges, borders, or natural screens.
This shrub also features golden spring blooms that give way to the vibrant fruits. Plant it in full sun for the brightest color, though it also tolerates light shade.
Once rooted, it’s hardy and can withstand cold winters with ease. If you’re looking for beauty combined with function, this shrub fits the bill.
#3 Japanese Skimmia
Japanese Skimmia is a shade-loving evergreen that thrives in zones 6 to 8. Its fragrant, oval-shaped leaves provide a lush backdrop for bright red berries that appear when female plants are paired with a male pollinator.
Skimmia is excellent for banks, borders, or hedges where a soft, refined look is desired. Keep the soil moist, slightly acidic, and rich in organic matter for steady growth.
Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller gardens or containers. Beyond looks, its aromatic foliage adds another layer of appeal.
#4 English Holly
English Holly is perhaps the most iconic evergreen shrub with red berries, often tied to Christmas traditions. Its glossy green leaves, complete with spiny edges, contrast beautifully with the scarlet fruits that ripen just in time for the holiday season.
This shrub grows well in zones 6 to 10 and can be shaped into hedges or left as a striking specimen plant. For berry production, ensure you have both male and female plants.
It prefers full sun but adapts to partial shade. With minimal care, you’ll enjoy a timeless classic in your garden.
#5 Spotted Laurel
Spotted Laurel delights gardeners with its bold foliage, a mix of dark green leaves splashed with creamy yellow spots. In spring, small purple flowers appear, later developing into glossy red berries that shine against the variegated leaves.
Growing well in zones 6 to 10, this shrub makes a strong statement in hedges, borders, or as a stand-alone plant. It tolerates shade and thrives in well-draining soil.
Prune lightly to maintain a compact, bushy shape. Its evergreen presence keeps your garden cheerful throughout the year.
#6 ‘Red Cushion’ Scarlet Firethorn
‘Red Cushion’ Scarlet Firethorn is prized for its showy clusters of berries that cover the shrub in autumn and winter. The small white flowers in spring are followed by masses of bright red fruits.
Its spiky branches make it an excellent choice for hedges, walls, or foundation plantings, adding both beauty and security. Hardy in zones 6 to 9, it thrives in full sun and adapts to various soil types.
Water regularly until established, then it becomes drought-tolerant. Few shrubs can match its dramatic berry display.
#7 ‘Repens Aurea’ English Yew
‘Repens Aurea’ English Yew is a low-growing evergreen with bright green foliage touched with golden highlights. Unlike many shrubs, it doesn’t bloom but instead produces distinctive red berry-like cones that stand out beautifully.
It thrives in zones 6 to 8 and performs especially well in shaded gardens. Plant it in well-draining soil and water consistently during its first year.
Once established, it’s tough and long-lasting. Use it as a ground cover, for edging, or in rock gardens to enjoy its year-round elegance.
#8 Chilean Guava
Chilean Guava is a charming shrub that combines beauty with utility. In spring, it produces clusters of fragrant pink and white flowers, which later give way to deep red, edible berries.
These berries taste sweet and are often used in jams or desserts. Best grown in zones 9 to 10, it prefers rich, well-drained soil and a sunny location.
It works beautifully in hedges, borders, or containers. Water regularly and trim lightly to keep it neat. This shrub rewards you with both ornamental appeal and tasty treats.