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Description
Berberis Nervosa, also known as Dwarf Oregon Grape or Cascade Barberry, is a species of evergreen shrub native to the western United States. It belongs to the Berberidaceae family and has small, bright yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is often used in herbal medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Berberis |
Appearance
Berberis Nervosa has dark green, glossy leaves that are spiny and grow in clusters. The shrub typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet and a spread of 2-3 feet. Its bright yellow flowers bloom in late spring and early summer and are followed by blue-black berries in the fall. The plant’s bark is grayish-brown and has a rough texture.
Care Guide
Berberis Nervosa requires well-draining soil and partial to full shade. The plant is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. Fertilization should be done in early spring using a balanced fertilizer. The shrub is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-9 and can be propagated through stem cuttings.
Common Pests & Diseases
Berberis Nervosa is susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. It may also attract aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Berberis Nervosa is native to the western United States and can be found in the Cascade Range, the Coast Ranges, and the Sierra Nevada. The shrub grows in moist, shady areas such as forests and streambanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Berberis Nervosa poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant contains berberine, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Berberis Nervosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and partial to full shade.
Q: How often should Berberis Nervosa be fertilized?
A: The shrub should be fertilized once a year in early spring using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Berberis Nervosa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the spiny leaves of the shrub make it unappealing to deer.
Related Plants
- Berberis Aquifolium
- Berberis Thunbergii
- Berberis Vulgaris
- Berberis Darwinii
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/bernerv/all.html
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/oregon-grape/growing-oregon-grape-holly.htm
- https://www.gardenista.com/plants/berberis-nercosa-dwarf-oregon-grape/
