Plant Guide

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Common Name

Dwarf Japanese Barberry
CA Native

Non-native
Plant Type

Shrub
Size

2' x 3'
Flower Color

Yellow
Bloom Time
- Spring
Leaves

Reddish-purple
Evergreen

Deciduous
Deer Resistant

Rarely Damaged
Wildlife Value
- Bees
Growth Rate

Slow
Hardiness

Hardy
Adverse Growth Factors

None
Special Features
- Attractive Berries
- Fall Color
- Low Maintenance
Water Use
- Low
Soil pH

6.5-7.5 (neutral)
Exposure
- Full Sun
Soil Type

Not Particular
Drainage

Good Drainage
Description and Cultural Plant Tips

This dwarf variety of Berberis has reddish puple leaves that turn to a brilliant red in fall. It received the Garden Merit Award from the Royal Horticultural Society. It makes an excellent small hedge and also adds color to a border of shrubs. Its size also makes it a good choice for rock gardens.

Plant slightly above soil grade in soil with good drainage. Tolerates light shade but needs full sun for best foliage color development. Prune to shape after flowering, so that inner leaves do not die.

Has no serious pests but can develop Black Spot and Verticillium Wilt if planted in a site with poor drainage and air circulation.
Master Gardener Comments

N / A
Varietals

B. thunbergii 'Bonanza Gold' - bright golden yellow foliage

B. thunbergii ' Kobold' - kelly green foliage in spring, matures to dark green in late summer