Wintergreen Barberry

(Berberis julianae)

Wintergreen Barberry (Berberis julianae)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Berberis julianae, commonly known as Wintergreen Barberry, is an evergreen shrub native to the forest understories and thickets of South Central and Southeast China. It can reach up to 3 meters in height and forms a dense, spiny bush with leathery, obovate leaves that are ideal for creating impenetrable hedges. The shrub is notable for its clusters of small, yellow flowers tinged with red, which bloom in spring and are moderately showy. Following the flowering season, it produces elliptical, dark purple berries that are almost black, with a white bloom and about 6 mm long, which can persist into winter adding visual interest.

Wintergreen Barberry is valued for its year-round foliage, making it an excellent choice for hedges, screens, and foundation plantings. It has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its exceptional qualities in garden settings. It requires full sun to partial shade and adapts to a variety of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it can tolerate medium to high water levels, it is also drought-tolerant once established. Gardeners should be aware that Berberis julianae can be invasive outside its native range, and it is important to consult local regulations before planting. Additionally, the plant may be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust, especially in humid climates.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4.5-6 feet
  • Width: 4.5-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to the forest understories and thickets of South Central and Southeast China

Other Names

Common Names: Chinese Barberry, Juliane-Berberitze

Scientific Names: , Berberis julianae, Berberis julianiae, Berberis julianae var. oblongifolia, Berberis julianae var. patungensis, Berberis julianae subsp. oblongifolia, Berberis julianae subsp. patungensis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Berberis julianae C.K.Schneid.