did you know?

This species of barberry is named for the Dutch botanist Carl Peter Thunberg (1743?1828), who introduced many Japanese plants to European gardeners.

general maintenance:

Barberry requires pruning only to modify shape or size.

pests/diseases:

Barberry is relatively carefree.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny to partly sunny site with well-drained soil, making sure there is enough room for shrub to reach its mature spread. In early spring, dig a hole twice as wide as container or root ball. Set plant at same depth or slightly higher than it was in the pot, or if balled, even with top of root ball. Fill in hole around plant with soil, mound soil to form a 2-inch-high ridge around perimeter of the hole to act as a catchbasin. If plant is balled in synthetic fabric, remove carefully before planting. Burlap may be left around root ball and then peeled back once plant is set in hole. Water thoroughly, filling the basin and allowing water to settle several times. Spread 2-inch layer of mulch around plant.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture the first season. Be sure the soil is moist before the ground freezes in fall. Each spring before growth begins, apply an all-purpose fertilizer, following label directions. Once shrub is established, usually by the third year, water only in times of drought.

garden hint:

Plant barberry in full sun for the most brilliantly-colored foliage; Increased shade will reduce color and variegation of most cultivars.

features:

• Attractive Fruit
• Deciduous
• Deer Resistant
• Drought Tolerant
• Winter Interest

garden uses:

• Edging
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

combine with:

shrubs that provide a contrast of foliage, such as golden-leaved spirea 'Goldflame'), 'Worcester's Gold', or gray-leaved Russian sage