Berberis vulgaris (Common Barberry)

Botanical Information

FamilyBerberidaceae
GenusBerberis
Speciesvulgaris
CategoryWoody
TypeShrub (deciduous)
OriginNative to central and southern Europe, northwest Africa and western Asia. Naturalized in many regions of North America.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer		The berries are edible but are sharply acidic and rich in Vitamin C.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone3 - 7
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone1a - 6a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-40 - (-21)
Temperature (°F)-40 - (-5)
Height3 m
Spread2 m
Flowering PeriodApril, May

Description and Growing Information

ShapeBroad.
PropagationSeed and hardwood cuttings.
CultivationGrow in full sun and in well-drained soil of any acidity.
PestsPseudomonas berberidis (a bacterium) may cause small, purplish-black leaf spots, which may coalesce to cause yellowing and early leaf fall.
Bark/Stem DescriptionThe stems are grooved, cambium is a distinct yellow colour.
Leaf DescriptionSmall, oval, 2 - 5 cm long and 1 - 2 cm wide with serrated margin. Borne in clusters of 2 - 5.
Flower DescriptionThe flowers are 4 - 6 mm wide and are produced on 3 - 6 cm long panicles in late spring.
Fruit DescriptionThe fruit is oblong, 7 - 10 mm long and 3 - 5 mm wide, berry-like and ripen in late summer or autumn.
Colour DescriptionThe leaves are green. The flowers and stems are yellow. The berries are red.

Photographs