These native shrubs provide berries and shelter through the coldest months, keeping birds fed when food is scarce.
1. Winterberry (Ilex verticillata) – Zones 3–9 • Bright red berries shine against snow.
Plant in spring or early fall.
2. Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) – Zones 4–9 • Fruits feed robins, cardinals, and thrushes.
Plant in spring or fall.
3. Viburnum (V. dentatum & others) – Zones 2–9 • Clusters of berries for dozens of bird species.
Plant in spring or fall.
4. Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) – Zones 3–9 • Late-summer fruit stripped quickly by birds.
Plant in spring or fall.
5. Dogwood (Cornus sericea, C. florida) – Zones 3–8 • Berries plus colorful winter stems.
Plant in spring or fall.
6. Bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica) – Zones 3–7 • Waxy berries feed migrating warblers.
Plant in spring.
7. Chokeberry (Aronia spp.) – Zones 3–8 • Tart berries persist into deep winter.
Plant in spring or fall.
8. Sumac (Rhus typhina) – Zones 3–9 • Red clusters stand tall even in snow.
Plant in spring.
9. Juniper (Juniperus virginiana) – Zones 2–9 • Blue berries loved by cedar waxwings.
Plant in spring or fall.
Plant natives in spring or fall → support birds 
, pollinators 
, and a thriving backyard ecosystem 
.