Tuesday, June 14, 2011

B is for Berberis thunbergii

I cannot tell a lie, the sole reason I picked this species is because I think the names is kind of funny. Yes, I am mature.

Photos: Uncredited Mississippi State University Arboretum and gardensandplants.com

Berberis thunbergii 'Atropurpea', commonly Red Leaf Japanese Barberry, is as the name suggests, a hybrid from Japan. Included in many invasive species and Do Not Plant lists, particularly those from the Eastern United States, it is still commonly used as an ornamental on the West Coast where it does not appear to be as successfully dominant. As with many plants, if you decide to include this in a planting plan or garden, just be aware of its potential and keep an eye on it.

I love the wording Sunset uses to describe the shrub: "a graceful habit with slender, arching, spiny branches." It is suggested for use as an informal barrier hedge or specimen shrub for a pop of color. It is tolerant of environmental extremes for those difficult planting areas.

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