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American barberry
Scientific Name: Berberis canadensis
Family: Berberidaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: IL (Allegheny barberry), IN (American barberry), K
American Barberry (Berberis canadensis)
The American barberry, scientifically known as Berberis canadensis, is a native shrub found in eastern North America. It's also referred to as Allegheny barberry. This plant is recognized for its historical presence in gardens and natural landscapes.
Considerations for Pets
- American Barberry is a small to medium-sized deciduous shrub with bristle- tipped leaves.
- Branches have 3-parted spines.
Considerations for Children
- American Barberry is a small to medium-sized deciduous shrub with bristle- tipped leaves.
- Branches have 3-parted spines.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Berberis canadensis Mill.
- Common Names: American barberry, Allegheny barberry
- Family: Berberidaceae
- Synonym: B. angulizans
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to eastern North America, specifically the southern Appalachians.
- Found in habitats such as open hillside slopes and banks.
- Historically present from Virginia to Georgia, along the Alleghanies.
Morphological Characteristics
- Deciduous shrub, small to medium-sized.
- Leaves are alternate, simple, and slightly thickened, turning scarlet in autumn.
- Branches feature 3-parted spines.
- Produces yellow flowers in short umbelliform clusters, followed by ellipsoid glossy red berries.
Ecological Role
- The only native species of barberry in North America.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Can be confused with the Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii).
Further Information
- Information can be found at Dave's Garden.
- Information can be found from the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society).
- Steven R. Hill. Center for Biodiversity. Technical Report 2003 (9). Illinois Natural History Survey.