Royal Burgundy Barberry

Royal Burgundy Barberry (Berberis thunbergii 'Gentry')

Royal Burgundy Barberry (Berberis thunbergii 'Gentry') is a refined, compact selection of Japanese Barberry prized for its rich burgundy foliage and dense, mounded habit. Offering exceptional color and structure in a manageable size, this cultivar is ideal for borders, foundation plantings, and mass plantings where long-season color and minimal care are desired. Its slow growth and natural shape reduce the need for pruning, making it an easy addition to any low-maintenance landscape.

Distinctive Features

This deciduous shrub grows 18 to 24 inches tall and 24 to 30 inches wide, with small, rounded leaves that hold their deep maroon color from spring through fall. The foliage may deepen further as the season progresses, transitioning to scarlet tones in autumn. Yellow flowers appear briefly in spring, followed by red berries that persist into fall, offering visual interest and attracting birds. Its thorny branches provide some deer resistance and function well as a low barrier.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; full sun enhances foliage color.
• Soil: Well-drained soils preferred; tolerant of clay, loam, or sandy soil types.
• Water: Moderate; requires regular watering during establishment, then occasional during dry periods.
• Humidity: Tolerates a range of humidity conditions; suitable for urban settings.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8; cold hardy and reliable across a wide range of climates.

Ideal Uses

• Foundation Plantings: Offers structure and color near entryways or along buildings.
• Border Edging: Naturally rounded form defines walkways and garden edges.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a bold visual effect when planted in groups.
• Accent Plant: Foliage color provides excellent contrast against green-leaved companions.
• Container Gardens: Slow growth and tidy form make it container-friendly.

Low Maintenance Care

Royal Burgundy Barberry is low maintenance and adaptable, making it a solid choice for gardeners seeking color with minimal effort. It performs well without shaping and is tolerant of various growing conditions.

• Watering: Regular watering in the first season; once established, water only during dry periods.
• Pruning: Rarely needed; prune in late winter if shaping is desired.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light dose of balanced fertilizer in spring if growth slows.
• Pest & Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to common pests and tolerant of urban pollution.
• Winter Care: No special protection needed; fully hardy and deciduous.

Why Choose Royal Burgundy Barberry?

Royal Burgundy Barberry (Berberis thunbergii 'Gentry') delivers long-lasting color, compact size, and dependable performance with very little upkeep. It�s a dependable choice for gardeners and landscapers alike seeking vivid foliage in tight or formal spaces.

• Deep Burgundy Foliage: Color holds throughout the growing season and brightens in fall.
• Compact and Tidy: Naturally mounded shape eliminates the need for frequent pruning.
• Urban Tolerant: Performs well in city environments and along streetscapes.
• Wildlife Interest: Fall berries provide seasonal food for birds.
• Low Water Needs: Drought-tolerant once established, ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.

With its rich color and compact form, Royal Burgundy Barberry is a versatile choice for small gardens, borders, or mass plantings where bold foliage makes a lasting impression.