Shrub
Japanese barberry
Berberis thunbergii
A compact deciduous shrub with thorny shoots, green leaves that turn orange-red in autumn, yellow spring flowers and red berries. It is very hardy and adaptable, preferring free-draining soil in sun or light shade.
- Size
- 1–1.5 m high · 1–1.5 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun / Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Very hardy
- Seasonal form
- Deciduous
- Maintenance
- Low
Before planting
- Allow about 1–1.5 m for an untrimmed plant and keep thorny stems away from narrow paths and play areas.
- Choose free-draining soil; prolonged waterlogging is a poor fit.
- Outside its native range, Japanese barberry is invasive in some regions, including parts of North America. Check local planting guidance before choosing it.
Why choose it
- Dense branching, autumn colour and red berries give a long season of interest.
- The thorny habit can make a robust informal hedge.
Care
- Water while establishing and during prolonged dry spells; established plants need little routine care.
- Prune only when shape control is needed and wear gloves around the spines.
Good to know
- Wild-type plants usually have green leaves; garden forms and cultivars can have purple or golden foliage.
- The berries are ornamental; do not eat them.