Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Bagatelle'

Dwarf Purpleleaf Japanese Barberry

Deciduous Shrub

Outstanding Qualities
 This short compact selection of barberry is one of the best dwarf forms you can grow. Tight low mounds of cherry-red foliage cover this small shrub from early spring through the fall. As the new growth starts small yellow flowers hang in clusters among the rich red foliage. The unusual cherry tones in the foliage make this selection stand out in the garden.

Culture Notes
 This dwarf barberry has it best foliage color in full sun to light shade. It prefers a well-drained soil and will tolerate sandy and clay sites. Once established it will only need occasional watering during dry weather, although in sandy soils regular watering may be necessary to prevent drought damage. Almost no pruning is needed for this shrub to maintain its form. Avoid planting it where its thorns can catch litter from overhead trees.

—Courtesy Great Plant Picks

Growing Conditions

Zone: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Exposure: Part Sun, Afternoon Sun, Reflected Heat

Water Needs: Drought-tolerant, Low, Occasional

Description

Size: 14 - 24 tall x 14 - 24 wide
Shape / Form: Rounded
Foliage Texture: Fine
Foliage Quality: Fine

Features: Attractive Foliage, Attracts Bees, Drought-tolerant / Water wise, Dwarf / Compact Plant, Fall Color, Low Maintenance, Showy Fruit or Berry

Foliage Color: Burgundy / Maroon, Red
Fall Color: Red Orange

Flower Color: Yellow / Gold
Bloom Season: Spring


Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Edging, Groundcover, Hedges and Screens, Hell Strip, Mixed Border, Small Gardens
Special Situations: Deer Resistant
Wildlife: Bees

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall
Position / Role: front of border
Collections: Great Plant Pick

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: low

Suitable Substitutes

Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Concorde' | dwarf purpleleaf Japanese barberry

Perfect Partners

Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Vintage Gold' | Vintage Gold Threadleaf False Cypress

Plant Combos