Overview

Berberis bullata is a bushy, compact, mound-forming shrubs in the genus Berberis, part of the Berberidaceae family, with deciduous, evergreen foliage. Berberis bullata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include hedging, screening and mixed borders.

About

Berberis bullata is a cultivar of the Berberis genus, which comprises shrubs with spiny branches and simple leaves that may have spine-like serrations. This particular cultivar forms a bushy, compact, mound-shaped habit and can be either deciduous or evergreen. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and is suitable for various soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, provided the soil is moist but well-drained. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is ideal for hedging, screening, or mixed borders, with interest during spring and summer.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Berberis

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Berberis bullata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy, Compact, Mound-forming
Foliage
Deciduous, Evergreen
Suggested uses
Hedging, Screening, Mixed borders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Berberis bullata

Propagation
Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistance
Aphids, Berberis sawfly
Disease resistance
Powdery mildew, Honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Berberis bullata?

Berberis bullata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Berberis bullata need?

Berberis bullata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Berberis bullata hardy in the UK?

Berberis bullata has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Berberis bullata?

Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings.

More in the Berberis genus

Browse all Berberis