Wilcox’s barberry

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 2 to 3 feet tall, presenting Evergreen, leathery leaves, oval to elliptic shape, glossy dark green along with Small, yellow flowers in clusters, bloom in spring, followed by Small, red berries, edible when fully ripe. These features are supported by a reliable Fibrous root system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Native to North America, specifically the Rocky Mountain region, Wilcox’s barberry thrives in Prefers woodland or shrubland areas, often found in dry, rocky soils at elevations around 4,500 to 8,000 feet. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 3 to 7. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Wilcox’s barberry, This plant prefers Prefers partial shade to full sun and flourishes in Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a soil pH of about 5.5 to 7.0.

Wilcox’s barberry needs watering,Moderate; do not overwater, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Slightly dry to moderately moist, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Deep watering to support root establishment supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Wilcox’s barberry performs best within 20 F to 90 F (-6 C to 32 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 60 F to 75 F (15 C to 24 C), though it tolerates ranges from -10 F (minimum); 100 F (maximum). Additionally, maintaining Moderate humidity is preferred encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Compost to improve soil structure enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves may indicate nitrogen deficiency helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Late winter to early spring before new growth for Light trimming to shape and remove dead wood tidies its appearance, while Every 2-3 years if grown in a container may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Increase pot size by 1-2 inches in diameter increase and a fresh Mix of potting soil, sand, and compost. for Staking or Support. Generally does not require staking.

During Dormant in winter, growth may slow and some Leaves may turn bronze or remain green; minimal leaf drop can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation, cuttings, or division and provide Cold stratification recommended for seeds when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late spring or early summer, use rooting hormone, and keep moist to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWilcox’s barberry problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, spider mites and remain vigilant against Powdery mildew, root rot in poorly drained soils. Implementing Good air circulation, resistant varieties and applying Insecticidal soap for pests, fungicides for diseases when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Colds hardy perennials, other woodland plants and shows Generally does not have allelopathic effects, making it a flexible choice for various Border plant, woodland gardens, low maintenance areas.

the Edible Parts: Ripe berries. Toxicty of Wilcox’s barberry, Generally considered safe; however, excessive consumption of unripe berries may cause stomach upset. learning about its Harvest berries in late summer; use scissors to snip them off, Used in jellies, jams, and as a flavoring, and High in vitamin C and antioxidants can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditionally used for its antibacterial properties and to aid digestion or note its Important in native cultures as food and for its ornamental qualities.

With an Not currently listed (check local regulations for conservation status), proper Habitat preservation and seed banking