Cornell Cooperative Extension

Madison County
Japanese Barberry bushes
Image by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Japanese Barberry bushes

Japanese Barberry flower
Image by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Japanese Barberry branch and flower

Japanese Barberry foliage
Image by John Ruter, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

Japanese Barberry leaves

Japanese Barberry foliage
Image by James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

Japanese Barberry leaves

Japanese Barberry

Japanese Barberry ( Berberis thunbergii DC) was introduced in 1875 and promoted as an ornamental substitute for common barberry (Berberis vulgaris), which is a host for black stem rust. Prevalent in the East and Midwest of the United States, it forms dense stands that compete with native trees and plants (from USDA Plant Profiles).

Resources

USDA Plant Profiles provides background, maps of U.S. distribution, and links to selected federal, state and regional resources.

Invasive Plant Atlas of New England describes the history of introduction in New England, habitats where found, similar species, management options and additional resources.

Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources -- This 7-page illustrated PDF includes recommendations of specific chemicals to use for control, ways to dispose of the plant materials, and additional resources.

Invasive.org -- Post of USDA fact sheet that describes habitat, distribution, environmental impact, control and management, and references on Japanese barberry.

Last updated October 4, 2023

Invasive Plants

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