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Berberis vulgaris
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

common barberry

A deciduous, prickly shrub reaching 2-3m in height. Clusters of hanging orange-yellow flowers are borne in late spring to early summer, followed by red, ovoid fruits. Twigs are grooved and prickles usually 3-forked. Leaves are green, entire, small-toothed and occur in groups

Other common names
barberry
jaundice berry
see morejaundice tree
piperidge

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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Orange Yellow Green
Summer Orange Yellow Green Red
Autumn Green Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Berberidaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Berberis can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs with spiny shoots bearing simple, often spine-toothed leaves, and small yellow or orange flowers in axillary clusters or racemes, followed by small berries

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe SW Asia N Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Either native or naturalised, it is most often found in hedgerows or rough grassland, especially on chalk. Tolerant of a range of soils and locations, but grows best in any well drained soil in full sun or partial shade, though flowering and fruiting are best in full sun. See berberis cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
Pruning

If plants outgrow their space, prune after flowering, Pruning group 1 or Pruning group 2

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids and berberis sawfly

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews and sometimes by honey fungus

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