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Japanese Barberry

Berberis thunbergii, Berberidaceae

Zones
4–8
Layer
Shrub
Lifespan
Perennial
Growth
Moderate

Guild Roles

Pest ConfuserBeneficial Insect Habitat

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)Partial Sun (acceptable)

Water

Low

Soil pH

5 – 8

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

PlantainMusa paradisiaca
Wind ProtectionPest Deterrent
SmokebushCotinus coggygria
Wind ProtectionPest Deterrent

Antagonistic Plants

Bigleaf HydrangeaHydrangea macrophylla

Japanese Barberry produces berberine alkaloids that can inhibit growth of other ornamental shrubs like hydrangeas

Goji BerryLycium barbarum

Goji berry and Japanese Barberry both produce alkaloids that can be mutually inhibitory

Uses

Functions

Dye

Edible Parts

Fruit

Common Questions

What zones does Japanese Barberry grow in?

Japanese Barberry grows in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8.

What are good companion plants for Japanese Barberry?

Good companions for Japanese Barberry include Plantain, Smokebush.

Design guilds with Japanese Barberry and see companion relationships visually.

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