Overview
Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' is a deciduous shrub in the genus Berberis, part of the Berberidaceae family. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include hedges, borders and foundation plantings. It is native to Japan and eastern Asia.
About
Berberis thunbergii, the Japanese barberry, Thunberg's barberry, or red barberry, is a species of flowering plant in the barberry family Berberidaceae, native to Japan and eastern Asia, though widely naturalized in China and North America, where it has become a problematic invasive in many places, leading to declines in species diversity, increased tick habitat, and soil changes. Growing to 1 m tall by 2.5 m broad, it is a small deciduous shrub with green leaves turning red in the autumn, brilliant red fruits in autumn and pale yellow flowers in spring.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Berberis thunbergii
About the genus
Berberis, commonly known as barberry, is a large genus of deciduous and evergreen shrubs from 1–5 m tall, found throughout temperate and subtropical regions of the world. Species diversity is greatest in South America and Asia, but native species also appear in Europe, Africa, and North America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Berberis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Berberis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Berberis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Deciduous shrub
- Height
- 2.0 m
- Suggested uses
- Hedges, borders, foundation plantings
- Native to
- Japan, eastern Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; drought tolerant once established
- Pruning
- Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead wood
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings in summer, semi-hardwood cuttings, or by seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch'?
Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; drought tolerant once established.
Where is the best place to plant Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch'?
Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' need?
Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch'?
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead wood.
How big does Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' grow?
Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' reaches a height of 2.0 m.
Is Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' hardy in the UK?
Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Torch' 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 thunbergii 'Golden Torch'?
Softwood cuttings in summer, semi-hardwood cuttings, or by seed.
