Berberis thunbergii 'Orange Rocket'

A striking deciduous shrub that provides year-round interest for your garden.

• Also known as: 'Orange Rocket' Barberry
• Height and spread: Reaches 1.2m in height with a spread of 60cm.
• Foliage: New spring leaves emerge a vibrant rusty orange. They mature to green in summer before turning a brilliant orange-red in autumn.
• Stems: Features upright, spiny stems in a dark red-brown shade. These add strong winter structure.
• Flowers and fruit: Produces small, scented yellow flowers in spring. These develop into bright red, elliptical berries that persist into autumn.

Benefits for UK Wildlife

The dense, spiny thicket this shrub forms provides excellent shelter for nesting birds and small creatures. While the flowers offer pollen for bees, the bright red berries are a valuable food source for birds in the colder months.

Planting Tips

This barberry thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a position in full sun for the best leaf colour. It tolerates most soil types, including clay. Plant it as a standalone specimen or use it to add structure to a mixed border. Its thorns also make it an effective informal barrier.