Amur barberry (Berberis amurensis)

Amur barberry

Berberis amurensis, commonly known as Amur barberry, is a shrub native to Japan, Korea, the Russian Far East, and parts of China (Gansu, Hebei, Heilongjiang, Henan, Jilin, Liaoning, Nei Mongol, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi). It is named for the Amur River, which forms part of the boundary between Russia and China. It is found at elevations of 1100–2900 m. Berberis amurensis is a shrub up to 350 cm tall with spines up to 20 mm long on the smaller branches. Leaves are elliptical, paper-thin, up to 10 cm long. Flowers are borne in groups of up to 25. Berries are red, oblong, about 10 mm long.

Scientific classification

Species

Amur barberry (Berberis amurensis)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

3.5 m

Plant Height

2.5 m to 3.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Amur barberry

Care Guide for Amur barberry

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: For optimal care of amur barberry in its first growing season, water only when the topsoil is dry rather than daily. Once established, amur barberry is drought-resistant and should only be watered during extended dry spells. Use a hose to gently water the root system.

Fertilize: Amur barberry requires minimal feeding but benefits from slow-release, nitrogen-rich fertilizers. Incorporate organic fertilizers into the topsoil. Use a 5 cm (2 in) layer of mulch, such as wood chips or pine needles, around the plant, avoiding contact with the trunk to prevent stem rot.

Pruning: Amur barberry is a hardy, deciduous shrub with thorny branches and red berries. Prune in early spring to improve air circulation by removing dead wood and thinning overcrowded branches. This practice promotes vigorous growth and shape, making amur barberry a resilient garden addition.

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