Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Bagatelle'
Dwarf Purpleleaf Japanese Barberry
Deciduous Shrub
Outstanding Qualities
This short compact selection of barberry is one of the best dwarf forms you can grow. Tight low mounds of cherry-red foliage
cover this small shrub from early spring through the fall. As the new growth starts small yellow flowers hang in clusters among the rich red foliage.
The unusual cherry tones in the foliage make this selection stand out in the garden.
Culture Notes
This dwarf barberry has it best foliage color in full sun to light shade. It prefers a well-drained soil and will tolerate sandy
and clay sites. Once established it will only need occasional watering during dry weather, although in sandy soils regular watering may be necessary
to prevent drought damage. Almost no pruning is needed for this shrub to maintain its form. Avoid planting it where its thorns can catch litter from
overhead trees.
—Courtesy Great Plant Picks
Growing Conditions
Zone:
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Exposure:
Part Sun, Afternoon Sun, Reflected Heat
Water Needs:
Drought-tolerant, Low, Occasional
Description
Size: 14 - 24 tall x 14 - 24 wide
Shape / Form:
Rounded
Foliage Texture:
Fine
Foliage Quality:
Fine
Features: Attracts Bees, Showy Fruit or Berry, Dwarf / Compact Plant, Drought-tolerant / Water wise, Attractive Foliage, Fall Color, Low Maintenance
Foliage Color:
Burgundy / Maroon,
Red
Fall Color:
Red Orange
Flower Color:
Yellow / Gold
Bloom Season:
Spring
Uses and Applications
Landscape Uses:
Edging, Groundcover, Hedges and Screens, Hell Strip, Mixed Border, Small Gardens
Special Situations:
Deer Resistant
Wildlife:
Bees
More Design Considerations
Season of Interest:
Spring, Summer, Fall
Position / Role:
front of border
Collections:
Great Plant Pick
Care and Maintenance
Maintenance Level:
low
Plant Combos
-
Dry Garden Foliage Tapesty in Subdued Tones
Focus: Hellstrip / Parking Strip, Small Space
view combo
Exposure: Afternoon Sun, Full Sun
Zone: 7, 8