Creeping barberry - Berberis repens (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Creeping barberry

Also known as: Creeping oregon grape, Edging barberry, Creeping hollygrape

Creeping barberry (Berberis repens) is a hardy shrub that grows 46 to 76 cm tall and 61 to 91 cm wide. It originated in Northern California, as well as the Sierra Nevada. This species grows best in well-drained loamy soils.

Scientific classification

Species

Creeping barberry (Berberis repens)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

20 cm to 45 cm

Plant Height

20 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green, Blue, Purple, Lavender

Leaf Color

3 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

Black, Blue

Fruit Color

Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Red, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Creeping barberry

Attributes of Creeping barberry

Growth Rate

Given its slow growth rate, creeping barberry incrementally develops throughout spring, prioritizing vegetative growth over rapid height gain. Its growth pattern results in a dense mat-like form with vibrant foliage. Despite slower progression, its dense growth pattern aids in weed suppression, providing a horticultural advantage.

Distribution of Creeping barberry

Distribution Map

Creeping barberry is a plant species native to the temperate regions of western North America. It has a broad distribution in these areas, thriving in various habitats. The species has also been introduced to other parts of the continent. Moreover, creeping barberry is cultivated, indicating its range extends beyond wild populations through human activity, primarily for ornamental purposes. However, detailed information about specific introduced regions is not included, as per the instructions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Open forest, shrubland, grassland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Creeping barberry is a popular ground cover in cooler climate gardens and is also used as a low-growing specimen shrub. Its attractive foliage provides almost year-round appeal, while clusters of small spring flowers attract bees and other pollinators to the garden. Dark berries in the fall continue to add garden color and bring birds to the area as well.

Symbolism

Sharpness of temper, sourness

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Toxicity

Creeping barberry contains toxic berberine in all parts except ripe berries, making it harmful for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Avoid consumption to prevent harm to developing or newborn infants. High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, liver toxicity, diarrhea, kidney inflammation, jaundice, and allergic reactions. Direct skin contact can result in irritation or rash.

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Quickly Identify Creeping barberry

Low-growing broadleaf evergreen with creeping stolons, forming dense ground cover.

Oval, holly-like leaves with spines, compound pinnate structure, bluish-green color in summer.

Small blackish-blue berries in grape-like clusters, slightly tart taste, edible and attractive to birds.

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Care Guide for Creeping barberry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, creeping barberry is drought-tolerant and requires watering every 1-2 weeks. Preferring well-draining soil similar to its rocky terrain habitat, creeping barberry promotes healthy growth cycles and prevents waterlogging, making it ideal for outdoor environments.

Fertilize: Fertilizing creeping barberry enhances growth and flowering, ideally using a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) monthly in spring and early summer. Use 1/2 pound per 100 square feet. Consider high-nitrogen formulas for weak growth and avoid over-fertilization. Halt fertilization in late summer for dormancy preparation.

Pruning: Creeping barberry benefits from pruning to enhance vigor. For hedge planting, start shaping early. Prune in spring, avoiding moisture on tissues. Remove old and infected branches, cutting no more than 1/3 of the canopy at an angle. Always wear gloves and disinfect tools.

Propagation: Creeping barberry propagates effectively via cuttings in spring and summer, with moderate difficulty. Indicators of success include new growth and root development. For optimal results, utilize rooting hormone and ensure consistent humidity.

Repotting: Repot creeping barberry every 2-3 years in spring to support its spreading habit. Use a shallow, wide pot, ensuring sufficient space for roots. Maintain moist soil without overwatering to promote healthy regrowth, fostering creeping barberry's vibrant nature during its active growth phase.

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Images of Creeping barberry

Attributes of Creeping barberry

Distribution of Creeping barberry

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Creeping barberry

Care Guide for Creeping barberry

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