Berberis wallichiana, commonly known as Chutro, is an evergreen shrub native to the Himalayas and surrounding regions. It typically grows to a height of 11 feet (3.4 meters) and a width of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters). The plant features spiny, leathery leaves and bears clusters of small, yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by blue-black berries that are attractive to birds. The berries are also used in traditional medicine and as a flavoring in some regional cuisines.

Chutro is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its striking yellow flowers and its ability to form dense hedges. It is often used in urban landscapes, borders, and as a security barrier due to its thorny branches. Berberis wallichiana thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil. While it is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. Gardeners should be aware that Berberis species can host wheat rust fungus, which is a serious disease of cereal crops; therefore, it may be restricted or banned in agricultural areas.CC BY-SA 4.0