Contents
Description
Berberis Gracilipes, also known as Slender-stemmed Barberry, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, with a vase-shaped habit. The leaves are green and oval-shaped, with spiny margins. The flowers are small and yellow, blooming in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a red or blue-black berry, which attracts birds and wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Berberis |
Appearance
Berberis Gracilipes has a distinctive vase-shaped habit, with slender, arching branches. The leaves are green and oval-shaped, with spiny margins. The flowers are small, with 6 petals and yellow color, blooming in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a red or blue-black berry, which is attractive to birds and wildlife. In fall, the leaves turn a reddish-purple color, adding a colorful display to the landscape.
Care Guide
Berberis Gracilipes is a low maintenance shrub, which can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water regularly during the first growing season, to establish a deep root system. After that, water only during prolonged drought periods.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring, before new growth appears.
- Soil: Berberis Gracilipes prefers well-draining soils, but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
- Sunlight: Berberis Gracilipes prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers and fruit.
- Hardiness Zones: Berberis Gracilipes is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Berberis Gracilipes is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can suffer from:
- Scale: Small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems, sucking sap from the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be prevented by improving air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
- Rust: A fungal disease that appears as orange spots on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides.
Habitat
Berberis Gracilipes is native to Japan, where it grows in forests and mountain areas. It prefers well-draining soils and is often found growing on slopes or rocky outcrops. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Berberis Gracilipes deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Berberis Gracilipes is deer-resistant, due to its spiny leaves and branches.
Q: Can Berberis Gracilipes be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Berberis Gracilipes can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should Berberis Gracilipes be pruned?
A: Berberis Gracilipes can be pruned in late winter or early spring, to remove any dead or diseased wood. It can also be pruned for shape or to control its size.
Q: Is Berberis Gracilipes invasive?
A: No, Berberis Gracilipes is not considered invasive, but it can self-seed and spread in favorable conditions.
Related Plants
- Berberis thunbergii
- Berberis vulgaris
- Berberis darwinii
References
- “Berberis Gracilipes”. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c730
- “Berberis Gracilipes”. Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10298/Berberis-gracilipes/Details
- “Berberis Gracilipes”. Plant Lust. https://www.plantlust.com/plants/berberis-gracilipes/
