Berberis thunbergii var. atropurpurea (Dracilă, Japanese Barberry)

Berberis thunbergii var. atropurpurea, also known as purple barberry or red barberry, is a cultivar of the species Berberis thunbergii from the Berberidaceae family. This deciduous shrub is valued for its intense purple foliage and compact decorative appearance, being a popular choice in ornamental gardens, hedges, or borders. Native to Japan, the atropurpurea variety adds vibrant color to landscapes, being hardy and easy to maintain.

Regarding medicinal properties, purple barberry has traditional uses in folk medicine: extracts from roots, bark, and leaves contain berberine, an alkaloid with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, used in remedies for digestive issues, infections, or inflammations. However, it is not recommended for medical use without medical consultation.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves: The leaves are small, ovate, 1-3 cm long, with entire or slightly spiny edges, dark purple-red throughout the season, more intense in strong light. In autumn, the leaves turn bright red shades, offering a colorful display.
• Flowers: The flowers are small, yellow, clustered in racemes, appearing in May-June. They are discreet but attract pollinators such as bees.

Appearance of fruits

• Fruits: The fruits are small, oval, bright red berries, 0.5-1 cm long, which persist late into autumn and winter, adding visual interest and attracting birds.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: Reaches 1-1.5 meters in height and 1-1.5 meters in width, forming a compact, rounded shrub with arching branches.
• Vigor: Moderate growth, with spiny stems, forming a dense natural barrier.
• Type: Deciduous, perennial shrub, with leaves falling in winter.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun for maximum leaf coloration but tolerates partial shade, where color may be less intense.
• Soil: Grows in well-drained soils, from sandy to clayey, with neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.5). Tolerates poor soils.
• Watering: Water regularly in the first year, keeping the soil moist. Once established, it is tolerant to moderate drought.
• Temperature: Hardy in zones 4-8 (down to -30°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania.

Care and resistance

• Resistance: Very resistant to cold, drought, and urban pollution. Tolerates wind and poor soils. Rarely affected by diseases or pests but may attract aphids; treat with organic methods.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring, once a year, if the soil is poor. Does not require frequent fertilization.
• Pruning: Prune in spring, removing dry or crossed branches to maintain shape. Tolerates severe pruning for rejuvenation.
• Propagation: Propagated by stem cuttings or dividing clumps in spring.
• Warning: Spiny branches can cause scratches.

Usage

Berberis thunbergii var. atropurpurea is ideal for natural hedges, defensive borders, ornamental gardens, or cottage-style landscapes. The purple foliage adds contrast, combining well with green or golden plants. They attract birds, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Berberis thunbergii is native to Japan. The atropurpurea variety was selected for its purple foliage and introduced into European and North American horticulture in the 19th century.

Height including pot: approx. 30 cm (varies depending on season)

Pot diameter: 9 cm

In the cold season, plants are sold without leaves.