Berberis thunbergii Tricolour

Common Name:
Tricolour Japanese Barberry

Description:
Berberis thunbergii 'Tricolour' is a compact, deciduous shrub celebrated for its vibrant, variegated foliage. The small, rounded leaves display a striking mix of green, white, and pink hues, creating a dynamic visual appeal throughout the growing season. In spring, clusters of small, pale yellow flowers emerge, attracting pollinators. These are followed by bright red berries in autumn, which persist into winter, providing food for birds and adding seasonal interest. The foliage turns vivid shades of red and orange in autumn before shedding for winter. 'Tricolour' thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and can be used effectively as a hedge, border, or specimen plant in Melbourne gardens.

Form:

• Shrub - Medium

• Suitable for Hedging

Mature Size:

• Height: 1–1.5 m

• Width: 1–1.5 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Pale Yellow

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Disease Resistant

• Bird Attracting

• Bee Attracting

• Perennial

• Suitable for Hedging

• Drought Tolerant

• Frost Hardy

• Low Maintenance

• Intruder Deterrent (due to thorny branches)

Toxicity:

• All parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested by humans and animals. Handling may cause skin irritation; wearing gloves is recommended.

Companion Plants:

• Lavandula spp. (Lavender)

• Salvia spp.

• Buxus sempervirens (Boxwood)

• Spiraea spp.

• Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage)