Berberis species / Barberry Species Guide
Although Berberis are not recognised as a classic bonsai subject, they have small leaves that back bud easily, numerous small, showy flowers in a variety of colours and develop beautiful mature bark quickly.
Suitable Berberis species include B. thunbergii varieties, B darwinii. B buxifolia amongst others. Red-leaved varieties are weaker than green leaved Berberis.
Ease of Cultivation 8/10 Suitablity for Bonsai Styling 8/10
Position Outdoor only. Full sun or partial shade, protect from frosts below -5°C to avoid twig die-back.
Pruning Trim back after flowering unless fruits are required. For trees that require stronger growth, remove dead flowers to avoid wasting energy on fruit production. When pruned, Barberrys display unusual yellow inner stem, root and trunk colour.
Propagation Sow seed outside in early-Spring, root softwood cuttings of deciduous species in Summer, take semi-ripe cuttings of deciduous and evergreen species in Summer. Air-layer or ground layer in Autumn or Spring.
Pests and Diseases Powdery mildew can occasionally be a problem, aphids.
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