Berberis julianae: Wintergreen Barberry
Plant community: NA
Native region: Native to central China, introduced into United States
Mature size: Shrub, grows up to 8 feet tall
Habitat: Hardy shrub, can grow in low temperatures. Requires full sun.
Hardiness zones: Zones 6-8
Leaf characteristics: Alternate and simple, up to 2″ long and up to 3/4″ wide. Long elliptical in shape. Very rigid and spiny.
Flower and fruit characteristics: Small yellow flowers which bloom in April and May. Produces dark berries in fall.
Other notable characteristics: Yellowish bark with three spines at the nodes.
Urban use: Sometimes utilized as a border and as a hedge due to spininess. However, its quick growth as an invasive species cause many to discourage its use in urban environments.
More on invasive species
Sources: USDA Plants, Dirr, UCONN Horticulture
