Barberry(Bérberis) is an evergreen, semi-evergreen, or deciduous shrub, rarely a tree. It has 450 species, and grows in almost all climatic zones. It prefers rocky, stony soil. It is a light-loving plant. It grows up to 2 meters in height and is widely used in gardening.
Barberry is not considered a "classic" bonsai plant for some reason. However, a very beautiful miniature tree can be created from this plant. It has small, colorful leaves, flowers, and fruit. It is well-suited for pruning, quite durable, and can tolerate both high temperatures and cold. The Japanese (or red barberry) Bérberis thunbergii is especially beautiful due to its red leaves.
Styles: In fact, barberry can be shaped in almost any style, except for bunjingi (文人木).
Location: A sunny spot, rarely partial shade. Tolerates direct sunlight well during the summer. As a precaution, avoid exposure to temperatures below -5°C to prevent the roots and very thin branches from freezing.
Soil: Not demanding on the substrate. Well-drained, regular soil mixture.
Repotting: Once every two years
Watering: Moderate, do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Fertilizing: Once every two weeks, from early spring until September.
Pruning: Strong pruning is done in the fall, after leaf drop or early spring. Shape-maintaining pruning can be done throughout the entire vegetation period.
Diseases and Pests: Quite rarely, it can develop ash, and among pests, scale insects.
Note: Barberry seedlings can be purchased from garden centers. Typically, these are small shrubs with thin stems. Therefore, to achieve relatively quick results, it is desirable to create a small-sized bonsai from them.
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