Golden Carousel® Barberry

Golden Carousel® is the trade name associated with the named barberry selection ‘Bailsel’, identified by North Dakota State University as Berberis × ‘Bailsel’. This deciduous shrub has rounded, dense branching and bright golden foliage that can fade toward green in the hottest weather, then turn orange-red in fall. ## Form and Color The [NDSU Campus Arboretum profile](https://www.ndsu.edu/campus-arboretum/golden-carouselr-barberry) describes a mature height of 4–5 feet and spread of 3–4 feet, with zone 4–8 hardiness. Minnesota’s [Department of Agriculture profile](https://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants/pestmanagement/weedcontrol/noxiouslist/japanesebarberry) identifies Bailsel as a hybrid of Korean and Japanese barberry. Its red berries mature in fall and persist through winter. ## Placement NDSU recommends full sun while noting that excess heat can burn the foliage. Site the shrub in well-drained soil and allow room for its upright, dense branches. Its golden leaves brighten a border or hedge, while the seasonal color provides contrast in mixed plantings. ## Seasonal Interest Golden foliage appears early in the year, may fade toward green in summer heat, and turns orange-red in fall. Small yellow flowers appear in spring beneath the foliage. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and extended dry spells. Selectively remove damaged branches and prune to retain the shrub’s natural outline. Avoid wet soils, which NDSU identifies as unsuitable for this barberry.