Shrub: Barberry
Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) is deer-resistant and deciduous, with thorny stems that make it a good foundation plant for increasing home security. Once established, this compact, dense shrub is drought tolerant. We like the variety Sunjoy Tangelo (shown here) for its bright orange new growth that turns chartreuse on the leaf margins as the season progresses.
Some barberries are invasive and may not be grown in some states. Check with your local extension service office before you plant.
Plant barberry in spring in part sun or full sun for the best foliage color, and in moist but well-drained soil. Sunjoy Tangelo grows to 3′-4′ high and wide and is hardy in USDA Zones 4-8. Prune to shape in summer, if desired, and fertilize in spring after the last frost and when new growth appears. In all zones, mulch in fall; in Zones 4-5, mulch heavily after the first frost and pull back the mulch in spring.
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