Berberis darwinii
Height: Easily maintained at 1-2mGrowth rate: Medium, expect 20-40cm per yearEvergreenGreat for wildlifeRHS Award of Garden MeritCombining practicality with beauty, Berberis darwinii is a vigorous evergreen shrub that is perfect as a security hedge or informal flowering shrub in the most challenging sites, with the additional bonus of offering plenty of value for wildlife too.Dense, thorny stems act as a natural deterrent to intruders, whilst also making a popular nesting site for small birds. Small glossy green spiny foliage provides year-round interest whilst in April and May, abundant nodding clusters of rich orange flowers, tinged red in bud, burst into bloom, creating a bright display and providing a valuable nectar source for pollinators. A second flowering may appear in autumn, followed by blue-black berries that attract birds.With an average growth rate of 20-40cm per year, this upright shrub is easy to maintain at a height of 1-2m. Tough and resilient, it flourishes in all soil types, from heavy clay to shallow chalk and exposed coastal areas. Recognised with the RHS Award of Garden Merit, Berberis darwinii is a superb choice for wildlife-friendly, low-maintenance planting in any garden.Height and spread: 2.5m (8.2ft) – 4m (13ft).
