The Berberis thunbergii plant is a native to East Asian countries, and especially to Japan. It has since become widespread in numerous other countries such as the USA and China.
Japanese barberry is a bushy shrub with spiny branches. It has a deciduous nature. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in temperate parts of the world.
Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Rose Glow' photograph by F. D. Richards.
There are many cultivars available. These typically have different colored foliage. This may be variegated, and ranges from yellow through to dark red and violet. Cultivars may also be specialized for use in hedges (growing more erect) or as stand alone dwarf plants.
Life Cycle/Type: Deciduous shrub. Compact, bushy.
Flower Details: Solitary flowers. Pale yellow or orange. Red sepals.
Suitable Soil Types: Average, clay, loam, sand, chalk.
Soil Moisture: Well drained. Medium moisture. Tolerates dry soils.
Sowing, planting, and Propagation: From seeds. Autumn or spring. Preferably fresh seed in autumn.
Best used in: Hedge, stand alone. Autumn color. Low maintenance gardens.
Miscellaneous : Showy glossy berries. Pests include sawflies. Subject to powdery mildews. Tolerates dry soils and drought conditions. Deer tolerant. Does not like wet soils.