SIMPSON’S STOPPER

Simpson’s Stopper, also known as “Twinberry,” is a versatile shrub popular among South Florida homeowners for its ability to attract butterflies with its flowers and birds with its fruit. This plant is particularly beneficial for local wildlife due to its cold hardiness, salt tolerance, and drought resistance once established. Its slow growth rate reduces maintenance needs.

The shrub produces small, fragrant white blossoms throughout the year, peaking in spring. Following the blooms, bright red berries appear that are favored by mockingbirds, blue jays, and cardinals; these berries are also edible for humans. Although berry-producing shrubs can be messy, these small fruits are quickly eaten by birds.

Simpson’s Stopper thrives in both sun and shade environments. In sunny areas, it develops dense foliage for a full appearance; in shaded spots, the sparser leaves highlight the smooth bark. It can be pruned to 6-8 feet as a hedge or allowed to grow up to 20 feet as a multi-branched tree.

The name “stopper” may originate from Native American use of the fruit for medicinal purposes or from the plant’s ability to form dense thickets that block passage. Suitable for any landscape style—formal or natural—it serves well as an ornamental tree in small yards. Due to its slow growth rate, starting with a larger plant is advisable.

Its salt tolerance makes it ideal for coastal properties and it often lines roads leading to beaches where nature and occasional maintenance crews care for it. This evergreen shrub grows slowly to moderately well in sun or partial shade and thrives best in Zone 9 southward.

Landscape uses for Simpson’s Stopper

• hedge
• large accent
• single yard specimen – large shrub or small tree
• anchor for a mixed bed or native plant garden
• backdrop for smaller plants
• by a birdbath and/or feeder
• corner-of-the-house shrub
• in pairs on each side of driveway entrance
• for shade or privacy by a deck, patio or pool