What: Dwarf Purpleleaf Japanese Barberry, or berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Concorde, was selected for its small, compact size and dense growth. In spring, deep red-burgundy foliage emerges as small clusters of bright yellow flowers open and dangle from short, spiky stems. The blooms are quickly hidden by the richly colored foliage. This barberry holds its deep color through the growing season until fall, when it brightens to crimson before dropping its leaves. This is a more consistent grower with better color than the similar but inferior red pygmy barberry.
Where: This dwarf barberry prefers a location in full sun for the best foliage color. It also prefers a site with well-drained soil, but will tolerate sand and clay.
Size: Reaches 2 feet high by 3 feet wide in 10 years.
Care: Once established it only needs occasional watering during dry weather, but prefers regular watering in sandy soils.
— greatplantpicks.org
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.