Overview
Barberry Bonsai (Berberis species) is a thorny shrub with small leaves, yellow flowers, berries and excellent autumn colour in deciduous types. It is best suited to beginners, wild hedgerow styles, shohin and clump designs. For UK growers, treat it as: Outdoor.
Placement
full sun to partial shade; best colour and berries with good sun
Watering
keep evenly moist, especially in shallow pots
Feeding and fertilising
feed during spring and summer
Pruning and wiring
trim after flowering or growth flushes; use caution with thorns
Repotting
repot every 2-3 years in spring
Propagation
cuttings, seed or layering
Pests, diseases and common issues
aphids, sawfly, mildew and rust on some species