Description
Berberis thunbergii, commonly known as Japanese barberry, is a beautiful and hardy shrub that is popular in UK gardens. This plant is a member of the barberry family and is prized for its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and colourful berries. The leaves of this plant are small and oval-shaped, with a glossy texture and attractive green colour. The plant produces bright yellow flowers in the spring, followed by bright red berries in the summer and autumn. As a low-maintenance and versatile shrub, Berberis thunbergii is an excellent choice for adding interest and beauty to a garden. It can be used as a specimen plant, in mass plantings or as an informal hedge. The plant is also known for its resistance to pests and diseases, making it a great option for gardeners who want an easy-care plant. Overall, Berberis thunbergii is a charming and versatile addition to any UK garden. Its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and colourful berries make it a valuable addition to a garden or landscape design.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Japanese barberry ‘Golden Dream’
- Hardiness:Fully hardy
- How big will I get? Berberis thunbergii ‘Golden Dream®’ can grow to a height of 1.5m and a spread of 1.5m.
- Did You Know That:Many species of Berberis have spines all the way along their branches?
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
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Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Berberis thunbergii ‘Golden Dream®’ is a versatile plant and can cope with wet or drier soils, but prefers there to be decent drainage. This plant can grow in soil with a wide range of pH levels, it is not picky about the pH level of the soil.
Best Position
Berberis thunbergii ‘Golden Dream®’ can handle either an exposed or a sheltered position and can cope with either full sun or partial shade.
Maintenance
Berberis thunbergii ‘Golden Dream®’ is not required, however to maintain an attractive shape it is good practice to remove any unsightly or damaged stems in Autumn, which will then be replaced by new growth the following Spring.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Berberis thunbergii ‘Golden Dream®’ can have problems with sawfly, it can be vulnerable to certain diseases such as powdery mildews. It is also known to attract bees and birds. It is not considered to be toxic.
