Berberis thunbergii
Japanese Barberry
Description
This broadleaf deciduous shrub will grow 3'-4' tall and 2'-3' wide; it has bright green leaves (depending on cultivar) that change to orange/red/purple in the fall. It produces clusters of yellow flowers that bloom during spring but are considered insignificant. Small, red roundish fruit hang on shrub during winter. This multi-stemmed shrub forms a thicket which gives birds a hiding place. This shrub does well in full sun; established plants are drought tolerant. Does not tolerate moist soil or conditions.
Sun
Full
Water
Low, Medium
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.