Other common names:
Common Barberry French names:
Épine-vinette commune Family: Barberry Family (Berberidaceae) Group: Barberries Distinctive features: Shrub; Yellowish wood. Sharp 3-pronged spines. Obovate leaves. Fruits in bunches hanging down. Similar species: • Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) - very similar. •
American Barberry (Berberis canadensis) - not in Ontario. Flowers: Summer; Yellow; 6 parts (petals); Small, yellow, in drooping clusters. Leaves: Alternate, Simple, Toothed; Obovate leaves. Prominently spiny-toothed. Height:
2-3 m (6-9 ft) Trunk:
Wood is yellowish inside. Fruit/Seeds:
In bunches hanging down. Habitat: Forests, Fields and Open Areas; Roadsides, fields, open areas, woods, thickets. Lifespan:
Perennial. Books: Newcomb's Wildflower Guide: 354 Native/Non-native:
Non-native Status:
Common, alien, invasive.
Notes:
European Barberry is an alien escapee from gardens.
Origin and Meaning of Names:
Scientific Name: vulgaris: common (Latin) For more information visit: Ontario Trees and Shrubs Photographs:
55 photographs available, of which 16 are featured on this page. SCROLL DOWN FOR PHOTOGRAPHS.
