Plants Pacific Northwest

Berberis Darwinii

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Berberis Darwinii: Barberry

These blossom photos were made in Late-March 2003 in Vancouver along the waterfront by Coal Harbor.

This shrub is related to the 'Oregon grape" or Berberis Aquifolia which has medicinal properties.

A deservedly popular form Berberis darwinii is possibly the loveliest of the genus. Small glossy green leaves on the upper surface, silvery underneath and looking like a miniature holly leaf. An evergreen, though some of the older leaves fall in the autumn when they turn a beautiful red color.

A hardy shrub with leathery miniature holly like leaves that produces masses of small orange bell type flowers in early spring. The orange flowers that are produced in abundance in early spring provide a good source of nectar for newly emerging insects. The red flower stems combine to give the plant a beautiful effect. These are followed by edible black berries providing a food source for birds, which are excellent in jams and preserves. Shade tolerant.

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