Wintergreen Barberry

Wintergreen barberry (Berberis julianae) is a dense evergreen shrub with glossy, spiny leaves, yellow spring flowers and dark berries. It can form a substantial, thorny screen, so allow room for its mature size and place it away from narrow paths. ## Landscape use Use it as a hedge or barrier where its evergreen cover and spines are useful. The [North Carolina Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/berberis-julianae/common-name/julianas-barberry/) describes a fast-growing shrub that can form thickets; the [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/2133/berberis-julianae/details/) also lists it for hedges and screens. ## Size and siting North Carolina Extension gives a typical height of 6–10 feet and width of 4–8 feet. The RHS lists a broader mature range of 2.5–4 metres in both directions, reflecting variation with growing conditions and age. Grow in full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. The RHS H5 rating is a UK hardiness scale, not a USDA zone. ## Maintenance Water during establishment, then monitor during extended dry periods. Shape as needed after flowering, taking care around the prominent spines. The plant produces spring flowers followed by dark berries; its evergreen foliage provides structure through winter. Check local invasive-plant guidance before planting, since North Carolina Extension reports that it has escaped cultivation in several eastern states.