Berberis verruculosa (Warty Barberry)

Tough and adaptable, Berberis verruculosa (Warty Barberry) is a medium-sized evergreen shrub of dense, rounded habit with gracefully arching branches covered with needle-sharp 3-parted spines. The oval leaves, 1-2 in. long (2-5 cm), are lustrous dark green above, silvery-white beneath. They turn burgundy to mahogany in winter. Bright golden-yellow, solitary flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), dangle along the stems in late spring to early June. They are followed by blue-black berries, which are attractive to birds. Warty Barberry tolerates a wide range of soils, including poor soils. Effective on banks and slopes, it can also be used as a specimen, hedge, or barrier plant.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 3-6 ft. tall (90-180 cm) and 3-4 ft. wide (90-120 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to part shade, in any soil as long as it is not soggy or wet. Drought tolerant once established. Best fruit production in full sun.
• Perfect choice for banks and slopes, coastal gardens, cottage gardens or as an informal hedge or screen.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for berberis sawfly and powdery mildew. Deer resistant.
• Prune immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by seed or from semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Ingestion may cause mild stomach upset.
• Native to China.