The barberry genus is in the Berberidaceae family, native to a wide area of the temperate zone and montane tropics. The species (over 600 are recognized) can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs. The genus name is derived from the Latin word for these plants, "barbaris." Depending on the species, barberries are tolerant of all soil types and a wide range of pH. Most species need full sun, or partial sun, but some species can tolerate more shade. They spread by suckers and can form colonies causing some species to be classified as invasive so take care when choosing a shrub. The genus now includes species formerly placed in Mahonia along with those placed in smaller, segregate genera. Some botanists, however, prefer to recognize several genera instead of just one. Some species are believed to be alternate hosts of certain rust diseases of grain crops. Some species are useful early flowing nectar plants for honeybees and bumblebees. In ornamental gardens, they are useful foliage shrubs, especially those with colorful foliage. The flowers of most species are showy, as are the fruits. Barberries are noteworthy for the yellow color in the wood of the roots and shoots; moreover, the stamens move in response to touch by a bee. Many species are cultivated as border shrubs, accents, screens, groundcovers, hedges or small groups. The spiny species could be used as a security planting. They are useful in Asian, winter, cottage, rock or drought-tolerant gardens. Those with silvery foliage would stand out in a night garden. Some species can be used in shade gardens. Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: Leaf spots, rust, and leaf scorch from sun/wind. Chlorosis on high pH soils; leaves can look burned but stems will regrow leaves next spring. Watch for aphids, scale and whiteflies.
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.
Most leaves are glossy leathery green with spines. Some have fall color. They can be compound or simple. Shape and size vary per species.
Flower color
Gold/Yellow; Orange; Red/Burgundy
Flower value
Fragrant; Showy
Flower form
Raceme; Solitary
Flower size
< 1 inch
Flower detail
Flowers vary per species and can be orange to yellow in either clusters or solitary.
Bloom time
Spring
Fruit color
Blue; Purple/Lavender; Red/Burgundy
Fruit type
Berry
Fruit value
Edible; Showy
Fruit size
< 1 inch long, < 1 inch wide
Fruit detail
Barberry fruits are small berries, usually bluish or purple covered with a waxy bloom.
Stem detail
Stems often have spines.
Wildlife & Ecology
Native status
Native
Origin
North America, South America, Europe, Africa and Asia
Attracts
Pollinators; Songbirds
Food & Medicine
Edible parts
Fruit
Fruit type
Berry
Edibility
The fruits of some species are edible.
Uses (ethnobotany)
The wood is a source of yellow dye. The fruits and roots of some species are used medicinally. The fruits of some species are used for jellies and wine.
Landscape Use
Landscape location
Patio
Landscape theme
Asian Garden; Cottage Garden; Drought Tolerant Garden; English Garden; Nighttime Garden; Winter Garden
Design feature
Border; Hedge; Mass Planting; Screen/Privacy; Security; Small groups