Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin, also known as Japanese barberry Harlequin, is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan. It is a popular garden plant because of its striking foliage and low maintenance requirements. The plant is a member of the Berberidaceae family and is closely related to the Oregon grape.
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Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Berberis |
Appearance
Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin is a small shrub that typically grows to be about 3-4 feet tall and wide. It has a rounded, dense growth habit and produces small, yellow flowers in the spring. The real attraction of this plant is its foliage, which is a striking combination of green, pink, and purple. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and have a glossy appearance.
Care Guide
Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help your plant thrive:
- Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, reduce frequency; tolerates moderate drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in spring before new growth begins.
- Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils. Prefers well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: Best in full sun to part shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on leaves.
- Rust: A fungal disease that causes orange or yellow spots on leaves.
- Leaf spot: A fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on leaves.
- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from leaves.
Habitat
Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin is native to Japan and is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes throughout the world. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. This plant is often used as a hedge or border plant, and it can also be grown in containers.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin?
A: Fertilize in spring before new growth begins.
Q: How tall does Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea Harlequin grow?
A: This plant typically grows to be about 3-4 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Berberis thunbergii
- Berberis vulgaris
- Berberis darwinii
- Berberis aquifolium
References
- University of Connecticut – Plant Database. (n.d.). Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea ‘Harlequin’. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=51
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea ‘Harlequin’ (Japanese Barberry). Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/berberis-thunbergii-f-atropurpurea-harlequin-japanese-barberry
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea ‘Harlequin’. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b986
