Berberis vulgaris

Plant Details

Back

General Information

Scientific name: Berberis vulgaris

Also known as: European Barberry

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Shrub

Format: Smal

Height: 3.00 m

Width: 2.00 m

Growth Rate: Moderate

Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 3-7

Soil Moisture:
Permeable, Moist

Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral Basic

Light:
Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Fruit, Leaves, Condiment, Tea

Edibility:
(3)

Medicinal:
(3)

Features:
Dye, Hedge, Wood, Bee plant

Description

Fruits: edible raw or cooked. The sour berries are an excellent source of vitamin C. They have a strong sour taste and are often pickled, although some people, including children, enjoy them fresh. A refreshing lemon-flavored drink can also be made from them. The small fruits are about 10 mm long. Young leaves: The young leaves are used as a seasoning or as a sour snack. They can be consumed in similar ways to sorrel (Rumex acetosa). Finally, the dried young leaves and the tips of the shoots can be used to make a refreshing tea.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 15/08

End of Harvest: 31/10

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Arbutus unedoxaera Strawberry Tree	Arbutus unedo can provide ground cover, reducing weed competition around Berberis vulgaris and helping retain soil moisture.
Broussonetia kazinoki Kozo	Broussonetia kazinoki can attract pollinators, benefiting Berberis vulgaris during its flowering period.
Broussonetia papyrifera Paper Mulberry	Broussonetia papyrifera's leaves can provide shade, which can aid in maintaining a cooler environment around Berberis vulgaris.
Cudrania tricuspidata Silkworm Thorn, Storehousebush	Cudrania tricuspidata can contribute to biodiversity in the area, supporting beneficial insects that can help Berberis vulgaris thrive.
Eriobotrya japonica Loquat	Eriobotrya japonica may help to deter pests due to its aromatic leaves, providing a protective benefit to Berberis vulgaris.
Diospyros kaki Persimmon	Diospyros kaki can produce fruit that attracts birds, which can help control pests around Berberis vulgaris.
Amelanchier alnifolia Serviceberry	Amelanchier alnifolia can provide additional food sources for wildlife, promoting healthy ecosystems surrounding Berberis vulgaris.
Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn, Oneseed hawthorn	Crataegus monogyna serves as a shelter for beneficial insects, enhancing the ecological balance around Berberis vulgaris.
Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust, false acacia	Robinia pseudoacacia can improve soil quality by fixing nitrogen, benefiting Berberis vulgaris growth.
Vaccinium myrtillus European blueberry	Vaccinium myrtillus can help in nitrogen accumulation in the soil, which is beneficial for the growth of Berberis vulgaris.