Berberis gagnepainii (Black Barberry)


Botanical Information

FamilyBeberidaceae
GenusBerberis
Speciesgagnepainii
CategoryWoody
TypeShrub (deciduous)
OriginChina (West Hubei)
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone5
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone4 - 6a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-29 - (-23)
Temperature (°F)-20 - (-10)
Height5 m
Spread3 m
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodJune

Description and Growing Information

PropagationPropagate by seed (although offspring may be variable), or by cuttings.
CultivationWill thrive in any soil type that is not waterlogged, and should be grown in full sun.
PestsThe bacteria Pseudomonas berberidis may cause black spots on leaves, and the berberry aphid (Liosomaphis berberidis) may also be a problem.
Bark/Stem DescriptionStems are clustered and yellow, spotted dark brown.
Leaf DescriptionLeaves are matt grey-green above and glossy yellow-green beneath, growing to 4 x 2 cm.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are bright yellow, appearing in clusters of 7.
Fruit DescriptionFruit is purple-black and ovoid, growing to 1 cm.

Photographs