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Oregon grape

Berberis aquifolium ‘Compacta’

Description

The compact barberry is a spreading shrub growing to an average size of 18-30 in. tall and 2-4 ft. wide. Its glossy evergreen foliage is comprised of leaves divided into 7-9 rich green leaflets that have prickly spines on the margins. Small clusters of intense yellow flowers are noticeable in early spring; attractive powder coated blue-purple fruit mature in summer.

This California native cultivar is one of the best choices for shady and moist areas in the Western Sycamore garden palette. It becomes a very attractive ground cover for small spaces and as an understory plant to larger shrubs and trees; new growth and cool winters lead to pleasing red foliage character. Its best growth occurs on loamy soils with good drainage and little moisture stress.

Plant Type: Shrub, Ground cover, Native
Foliage Character: Evergreen
Habit: Compact
Growth Rate: Slow
Foliage Color: Dark green
Flower Color: Yellow
Flower Season: Spring
Soil Adaptations: Moist soil, Loam, Clay, Acidic soil
Exposure Adaptations: Morning sun, Moderate shade, Fog
Function: Wildlife value, Foundations, Foliage accent plant, Flowering accent plant, Borders, Banks, Attracts butterflies
Height: 18 in. – 24 in.
Width: 3 ft. – 5 ft.

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