Berberis vulgaris
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
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| 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
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- 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
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
If plants outgrow their space, prune after flowering, Pruning group 1
Pests
Could be affected by berberis sawfly
Diseases
Generally trouble free
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