Compact Coral Barberry: A Thorny Gem for Rock Gardens

Berberis × stenophylla 'Corallina Compacta' is a dwarf, evergreen barberry that lives up to its description: "thorny but irresistible." Tiny leaves smother the compact mound, which bursts into coral-colored buds opening to bright yellow-orange flowers in spring. These are followed by silver-frosted, blue-black berries in fall. Reaching just 6–12 inches tall and wide, it's perfect for rock gardens, front-of-border edging, or containers.

Exceptional Adaptability

This tough little shrub tolerates most soil types, drought once established, and light shade—though it flowers best in full sun to part shade. It's notably pest-free and low-maintenance, requiring only well-drained soil (it dislikes wet conditions).

Seasonal Highlights

The show begins in spring with colorful buds and blooms, continues with attractive evergreen foliage through summer, and concludes with ornamental berries in fall. Its compact, mounded habit never needs pruning to stay tidy.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 6–12 inches
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Dry to medium, well-drained
• Flowers: Yellow-orange, spring
• Berries: Blue-black, fall
• Foliage: Evergreen, tiny leaves
• Uses: Rock gardens, ground cover, borders