Barberry

Barberry

Brief Description

The Barberry checks off so many boxes. Deep rose-red, golden with an orange cast, purple-red, coral-orange, and ruby-red are some of the amazing color options. It is extremely hardy and is a fantastic hedge due to its dense foliage & small thorns. It also works well in full or partial sun. The Barberry needs little water and is low maintenance when planted in the proper place. They grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide depending on the variety. We love it! 

Origin

Asia (Japan)

Description

Common Name – Barberry 

Botanical Name – Berberis Vulgaris 

Plant Type – Deciduous 

Mature Size –  10 feet tall, 6 feet wide 

Sun Exposure – Full Sun 

Bloom Time – Summer 

Flower Color – Yellow to Gold 

Hardiness Zone – 4 to 8 

Planting

Due to the Barberry being a mid-size shrub, you’ll need a mid-size area to plant it in. Make sure that the area receives full sun because it thrives with it. Keep the roots moist during infancy. 

Care

The Barberry is very easy to care for. When it’s established, pull the emitters away from the base to promote drought tolerance and strength. Also make sure to not over-water it, and if anything, err on less water than too much water. During the growing season, don’t prune it (unless there’s a ‘wild’ hair bothering you). In order to produce strong new growth and vibrant flowers, cut ⅓ or ½ of the shrub every spring. 

Flowers

The flowers are about ½ inch long and form small clusters up and down the branches. 

Varieties

Any variety is great. 

Invasive

The Barberry can be invasive so check your State for more information. 

 

For other shrubs that are perfectly suited for Greater Prescott, read about the Crape Myrtle here.

Lastly, we highly recommend Watter’s Garden Center, Mortimer Nursery, or Prescott Valley Nursery as great places to both purchase shrubs & trees but to also ask questions because these are the experts.