Kobold Japanese Barberry

Kobold is a compact Japanese barberry with a low, rounded mound and small leaves that emerge bright green, deepen to glossy dark green in summer, and turn red in autumn. Short clusters of pale yellow flowers may be followed by red fruit. ## Form and Foliage The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/56582/berberis-thunbergii-kobold/details) and [University of Illinois woody-plant collection](https://woodyplants.nres.uiuc.edu/plant/berthko) identify the exact cultivar. Illinois describes a uniform, broad-rounded to mounded shrub about 2–2½ feet tall and notes USDA zone 4b. The RHS lists pale yellow spring flowers and red fruit. ## Placement Grow in full sun or part shade in well-drained soil. The compact outline suits a front border, low edging, or a small foundation planting. Japanese barberry has spiny stems, so leave clearance beside narrow paths and play areas. ## Seasonal Interest Bright green spring leaves darken through summer before developing red autumn color. The foliage makes a useful contrast with gold or purple-leaved shrubs, while spring flowers and red fruit add smaller seasonal details. ## Maintenance Remove damaged branches and prune lightly to maintain the natural mound. Avoid waterlogged soil and wear gloves when working around the spines.