Allegheny Barberry, American barberry

Berberis canadensis

Physical Characteristics

Berberis canadensis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Virginia to Georgia, Alberta and Indiana.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked. Agreeably acid[2, 22, 46, 95, 161], they are an acceptable raw fruit in small quantities but are more commonly used in preserves[177, K]. The fruits are about 9mm long[200]. Leaves - raw. A trailside nibble[102]. Flowers[102]. No more details.

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Cancer Dysentery Berberine, universally present in rhizomes of Berberis species, has marked antibacterial effects. Since it is not appreciably absorbed by the body, it is used orally in the treatment of various enteric infections, especially bacterial dysentery[218]. It should not be used with Glycyrrhiza species (Liquorice) because this nullifies the effects of the berberine[218]. Berberine has also shown antitumour activity[218]. A tea made from the roots is used in the treatment of fevers and diarrhoea[222].

Known Hazards

None known