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Description
Berberis Soulieana, also known as Soulie’s Barberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Berberidaceae family. It is native to China and was first introduced in France in 1901 by Père Soulié, a French missionary. The plant has an upright and spreading habit, growing up to 2m tall and 1.5m wide. It typically blooms in late spring or early summer, producing small yellow flowers that are followed by dark blue berries in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Berberis |
Appearance
Berberis Soulieana has green leaves that are oval-shaped and slightly serrated, measuring 3-8cm long and 1-3cm wide. The leaves turn yellow in the fall before dropping. The plant’s stems are brownish-red and have sharp thorns that can grow up to 1cm long. Berberis Soulieana’s flowers are small, measuring 5-6mm in diameter, and are arranged in clusters on the stem. The plant’s berries are dark blue and measure 8-10mm in diameter.
Care Guide
Berberis Soulieana is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of conditions. However, it prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and moist. The plant can grow in full sun or partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5-8. Here are some tips on how to care for Berberis Soulieana:
Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and moist.
Sunlight: Berberis Soulieana can grow in full sun or partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Berberis Soulieana is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by the following:
Aphids: These small insects can be removed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: These pests can be removed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by using a miticide.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be prevented by planting the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoiding over-watering.
Habitat
Berberis Soulieana is native to China and can be found growing in the wild in the provinces of Gansu, Hubei, Shaanxi, and Sichuan. The plant prefers rocky and gravelly soils in mountainous areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Berberis Soulieana grow in full shade?
A: No, the plant prefers full sun or partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Berberis Soulieana?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: When should I fertilize Berberis Soulieana?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Berberis Soulieana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. However, make sure to use a well-draining soil and water the plant regularly.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants:
- Berberis Thunbergii
- Berberis Vulgaris
- Berberis Darwinii
- Berberis Julianae
References
- “Berberis Soulieana,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed September 14, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283746.
- “Berberis Soulieana,” Royal Horticultural Society, accessed September 14, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/8672/berberis-soulieana/details.
- “Berberis Soulieana,” PlantFiles, accessed September 14, 2021, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/68263/.
