Some of my barberries are beginning to show color. This first one is Berberis oblongifolia. I don't know much about it, except that it is hard to find, has an awesome compact form, beautiful fine foliage, and good fall color. I kind of feel like knowing this much is enough.
Scott
And the foliage.
The second barberry is an evergreen form called Berberis x interposita "Wallich's Purple." In all seasons the foliage is a wonderful, glossy deep green, but this time of year some of the old foliage turns red and falls, and the display is excellent. This, too, I believe is a nice compact barberry. Very ornamental.
Scott
Scott, I really like the Wallich's Purple. Unusual. Looks like a holly.
It looks so much like a Holly I am wondering if it is? LOL
Here's the thing. Barberries are closely related to Mahonias. In fact, I think Mahonias have now been folded into the Barberry genus. And Mahonias, as you know, often look like hollies. A number of the evergreen barberries--woefully neglected species, btw--often have that prickly foliage reminiscent of some holly foliage.
Scott
I love Barberries, just wish they didn't have all those wicked torns on them. I especially like the looks of think it called, 'Crimson Pigmy' could be wrong about the common name. Seems to have a few les s thorns, but will still you your yearly flu shot if grabbed wrong.
Is there a thornless cultivar out there?
I have three Berberis' shrubs, Berberis Aurea and B Rose Glow are side by side just for the contrast. And Berberis vulgaris Royal Cloak is just south of house, and I am seriously considering taking it out, the thorns are really awful on it even tho has lovely color. If I can locate a picture I will post it, of Aurea and Rose Glow.
Donna
