Seed Availability

Seeds are not available for the Nevin's Barberry. Please visit our seed store to view current selections.

Description

Small shrub, usually to about 5-15ft. The leaves are multi-pointed bearing a casual resemblance to holly. The edible red berries cover the bush during summer season.

Hardiness

To well below 0F, possibly as low as -30F.

Growing Environment

This plant is native to dry-coastal and mountain chaparral regions and requires little water for much of the year. It is quite drought tolerant. It generally prefers full sun for best growth, and in cooler summer areas, should always be planted in full sun. It is not too picky about soil type, growing fairly well in sandy and clay soils.

Propagation

By seeds.

Uses

Fruits are eaten raw, and can be added to other foods for flavoring. The rhizomes contain berberidine, a chemical used in the treatment of bacterial infections.

Native Range

Native to Southern California. This species is currently threatened in the wild.

Additional Pictures

Related Species

Berberidaceae
	Berberis darwinii Darwin's Barberry		Berberis gracilis Mexican Barberry
	Berberis nevinii Nevin's Barberry