BERBERIS
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BERBERIS
Commonly known as Barberry
Genus of about 450 evergreen and deciduous shrubs from all parts of the northern hemishere, northern and tropical Africa and South America differing widely in form and habit from dwarf species to large garden or hedging shrubs and usually with spiny branches or spine-tipped leaves.
Barberry fruit, rich in vitamin C was used in the past to make jellies, jams and pickles.
B. vulgaris is naturalised in the UK and was much-despised and destroyed in the 19th century as it is a secondary host of wheat rust.
It is being planted to safeguard the rare Barberry Carpet moth, its sole food plant.
Full Plant Details - Sun/Soil & other attributes
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Good to know
Useful for hedging. -
Pests & Diseases
Aphids, powdery mildew. -
Place of origin
Western China (Hubei, Sichuan) -
EvergreenLinear-lance-shaped, dark-green leaves to 10cm (4in) long, spine-toothed and wavy at the margins.
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Fully hardy
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Height
1.5m (5ft) -
Spread
2m (6ft)
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Medium shrubTypically grow to around 4-6 feet in heightDense shrub with spreading, semi-pendent branches. Produces flowers to 1cm (½in) across, in clusters of 2-5 from the upper leaf axils, followed by fruit to 1cm (½in) long.
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Hardy - cold winter
Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/northern locations. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F) -
Tolerates allAny well-drained soil.
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Full sun
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Partial shade
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Mature Size1.5m (5ft)
2m (6ft)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Berberis - Care Guide
Hedging - Box Alternatives
