shrub

Barberry

Berberis vulgaris

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) — a shrub, for Full sun, Medium water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Waterlow to medium

↑ Gives back

Fruitedible fruit
Mulch_biomassmedium
Wind_shelterdense thorny habitat

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceNew leaves emerge after the last spring frost and when air temperatures consistently rise above 5°C.
floweringFlowering typically occurs about a month after leaf emergence, lasting for approximately 30 days.
fruitingFruits begin to form about two months after flowering and ripen over a period of two months.
harvestBerries are typically ready for harvest in September.
senescenceLeaves begin to senesce and drop with the first autumn frosts and shortening day lengths.
dormancyThe plant enters dormancy after the first autumn frosts, lasting through winter.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatespotassium, calcium
Soil textureloam, sandy_loam, clay_loam
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodsseeds, cuttings, division
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~2 yr
Stratificationcold_moist
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionspring_or_autumn

Wildlife & pests

Attractsbees, birds
Can host pestsaphids, barberry_looper
Can host diseasesblack_stem_rust