PLANT FINDER
Lava Nugget™ Barberry
Berberis thunbergii 'Martha'
Height: 3 feet
Spread: 3 feet
Sunlight:
Hardiness Zone: 4a
Other Names: Japanese Barberry
Brand: Monrovia
Description:
A beautiful, compact, large-leaved variety presenting bright orange-red new foliage that matures to a deep burgundy; small yellow flowers in spring and showy red fruits after the leaves fall; Excellent as a low hedge or accent plant; rust resistant
Ornamental Features
Lava Nugget™ Barberry is draped in stunning clusters of yellow flowers hanging below the branches in mid spring. It has attractive burgundy foliage with hints of deep purple which emerges coral-pink in spring. The large glossy oval leaves are highly ornamental and turn an outstanding plum purple in the fall. The fruits are showy red drupes carried in abundance from early to late fall.
Landscape Attributes
Lava Nugget™ Barberry is a dense multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with a more or less rounded form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.
This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and can be pruned at anytime. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;
- Spiny
Lava Nugget™ Barberry is recommended for the following landscape applications;
- Mass Planting
- Hedges/Screening
- General Garden Use
Planting & Growing
Lava Nugget™ Barberry will grow to be about 3 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 3 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 20 years.
This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist growing conditions, but will not tolerate any standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for a low-water garden or xeriscape application. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.
