Common Barberry (Berberis Vulgaris) is a perennial shrub in the Berberidaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Berberis vulgaris is a deciduous shrub native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, widely recognized for its thorny branches and tart, edible red berries.

Common Barberry

Common Barberry

Berberis Vulgaris

Berberis vulgaris is a deciduous shrub native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, widely recognized for its thorny branches and tart, edible red berries.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
4-8

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:clay, loamy, sandy
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:hedge, specimen, wildlife habitat, barrier

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Common Barberry

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Common Barberry
Common Barberry detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Berberidaceae
Genus:Berberis