Japanese Barberry

Berberis thunbergii

Physical Characteristics

Berberis thunbergii is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - C. and S. Japan

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[105, 177]. Dry with a very poor flavour[K]. The fruits are about 8mm long[200]. Leaves - cooked.

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antibacterial Antiseptic Cancer Dysentery Febrifuge The root bark is anthelmintic, antiseptic and febrifuge[178]. 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].

Known Hazards

None known