Japanese Barberry Kobold

A compact barberry with a spreading habit, Berberis thunbergii Kobold (Goblin) is a small, thorny, deciduous shrub, of average vigour, forming a neat, dense mound. The little leaves emerge bright green, maturing to glossy deep green in summer and turning vivid red in autumn. In spring, this shrub carries short racemes of insignificant pale yellow flowers, which are followed by red berries, an invaluable food source for birds in winter. Japanese barberry Kobold  can be clipped over after flowering, removing all flowered shoots; alternatively, allow it to form its scarlet berries, and cut back in late winter.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any well-drained soil, preferably moist
Position: Best colour in full sun; tolerates partial shade
Season of interest: Spring, summer, autumn
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 2’ (60m)  Spread: 3’3” (1m) in 10-20 years