Fendler’s Barberry (Berberis)

6-8′ tall x 6-8′ wide (seed propagated). A little-known deciduous native shrub from NM and CO, Berberis fendleri contributes year-round beauty to the garden. Bright red fruit (that hang on the plant all winter) follow the profuse display of pendulous yellow spring flowers. Its edible fruits taste like tart cherries. Plant in semi-shade locations with rich garden soil. Keep mulched and water regularly. To insure fruit set, plant two or more plants for cross-pollination. Berberis fendleri does have thorns and is an excellent shrub for creating songbird habitat and providing nectar for pollinators, as it produces large quantities of fragrant flowers. It is a fast growing shrub when planted into good soil and given adequate water. It doesn’t like to be grown dry, as it is a riparian species in nature. A quick grower, it will reach approximately 4 -5 ft in height and spread in just three to four growing seasons. (Previously listed as Mahonia fendleri).