Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii) BER-ber-iss thun-BER-jee-eye Genus:  Berberis Grown for its neat habit, yellow flowers, and red fruit, this shrub spreads prolifically by seed and is considered invasive in some areas, including the Northeast. Alternatives include bayberry ( Myrica pensylvanica ) and winterberry ( Ilex verticillata ). The many cultivars include 'Atropurpurea Nana' (red-purple foliage); 'Aurea' (bright yellow young foliage); 'Pink Queen' (variegated); and 'Silver Beauty' (leaves mottled creamy white). Noteworthy Characteristics:  Invasive. Attractive foliage. Care:  Adaptable to most any soil in full sun to part shade. Propagation:  Spreads prolifically by seed. Problems:  Scale insects, mites, Japanese weevils. Canker, dieback, fungal leaf spots, powdery mildew, root rot, Verticillium wilt, rust diseases.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower, Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Yellow Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Hedge Style Beds and Borders Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Shrubs