Berberis wilsoniae

Also Known As

Mrs. Wilson's Barberry

Plant type

shrub

size

H: 3'-4'
W: 4'-6'

planting zones

6a-9b

More Options

Berberis wilsoniae plant details

Berberis wilsoniae is a broadleaf semi-evergreen shrub with blue and burgundy foliage. In summer yellow flowers emerge followed by pink fruit. Attracts bees and birds making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - dappled shade and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, clay, gritty, rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Berberis wilsoniae

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: berberidaceae
Foliage: semi-evergreen blue and burgundy
Mature size: 4 FT - 6 FT - wide, 3 FT - 4 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in summer
Uses: award-winning, easy-to-grow, hedge, spiky

GROWING CONDITIONS for Berberis wilsoniae

USDA Zones: 6a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun - dappled shade
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit
Soil needs: average, clay, gritty, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A pretty, albeit prickly, gem of a shrub with arching branches 3-4’ high to 6’ wide clothed in spiny, steely blue foliage that is seasonally (fall and spring) suffused with plum…yum! Deer won’t eat it. Plant it where you don’t have to prune it. Bright yellow blooms in May followed by coral berries fading to blue-black that are edible. Sun to part shade – any soil (even clay), dry to moist…undemanding! Z6 3” pot

By: Secret Garden Growers

Berberis wilsonii - A gorgeous species with rather small gray green reticulate veined foliage that takes on a bluish cast, flowers are yellow followed by scarlet fruit, this is the AGS form. Wilsonii has been extensively crossed at Wisley to produce some outstanding hybrids.

By: Arrowhead Alpines

Small shrub found on the flanks of the highest mountain in Guizhou. This population was scattered among a scrub of rhododendrons, Viburnums and a curious small Beech and were congested plants 2'x3' with attractive blue fruit. These have small soft yellow flowers and will be taller with all that good care you provide.

By: Far Reaches Farm

A delightful little bush of lowly stature ; gentle grace (A.T. Johnson), this compact species forms low mounds of tiny sea-green leaves which turn bright colors in fall to blend with its copious coral-colored berries. Sun/Med