Barberry
Common Name: Barberry
Genus: Berberis
Species: darwinii
Skill Level: Beginner
Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Clay/heavy
Height: 300cm
Spread: 300cm
Time to plant seeds: October to December
Time to take cuttings: May to July
Flowering period: April to May
An early-flowering species discovered in South America in 1835 by Charles Darwin, this is one of the best flowering evergreens. The dense thicket of stems growing from ground level make a substantial border shrub as well as an effective hedge, reinforced by its thorniness, which makes it useful for security. In addition, orange flowers are carried in spring, and small purple-black berries in autumn. It is equally impressive grown in full sun or partial shade, against a wall or in an exposed position. Clip fairly hard in spring to limit the size. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it the Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
Looks good with:
Phormium cookianum subsp. Hookeri 'Cream Delight'Viburnum tinus 'Eve Price'
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