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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BerriesThese plants have berries.
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Good to know
Wildlife plant - attractive to insects -
Pests & Diseases
Aphids, powdery mildew. -
Place of origin
Western China (western Sichuan, Yunnan) -
Semi-evergreenKeeps some of its foliage all year, and will drop some leaves as well.Usually entire, oblong-spoon-shaped leaves to 2.5cm (1in) long.
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PaniclesShort panicles or clusters of 4-7 flowers 7-10mm (¼-½in) across
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Coastal / windswept
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Fully hardy
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Obovate
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Height
1m (39in) -
Spread
2m (6½ft)
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Medium shrubTypically grow to around 4-6 feet in heightDense, mound-forming, very spiny shrub with spreading, arching branches. Flowers are followed by spherical, translucent pink fruit to 6mm (¼in) across
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Pruning group 5
Suitable for: Evergreen shrubs that require minimal pruning.
Action: Trim or lightly cut back shoots that spoil symmetry. Deadhead regularly.
When: Annually after flowering.
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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) -
Autumn Seasonal Interest
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Spring Seasonal Interest
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Summer Seasonal Interest
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Winter Seasonal Interest
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Tolerates allAny well-drained soil.
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Full sun
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Partial shade
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Bee friendly
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Bird friendly
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Rabbit Resistant
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Mature Size1m (39in)
2m (6½ft)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Berberis - Care Guide
Hedging - Box Alternatives
