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Berberis ×ottawensis

Scientific Name: Berberis ×ottawensis

Family: Berberidaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Berberis × ottawensis 'Superba'

This page provides information about Berberis × ottawensis 'Superba', a popular and visually striking shrub often referred to as Barberry.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant is described as a "barbed plant" and having "strong thorns."

Considerations for Children

  • This plant is described as a "barbed plant" and having "strong thorns."

Common Names

  • Barberry
  • Purple Berberis (sometimes)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Berberis × ottawensis 'Superba'
  • Family: Berberidaceae (Genus Berberis)
  • Synonyms:
    • Berberis ottawensis 'Superba'
    • Berberis thunbergii 'Atropurpurea Superba'
    • B. x ottawensis f.purpurea 'Superba'
    • Berberis ottawensis f.purpurea 'Superba'
    • Berberis thunbergii Ottawensis Superba
  • Hybrid Origin: A hybrid between Berberis thunbergii (Thunberg Barberry).

Distribution and Habitat

  • This plant has been identified as having a national distribution in Canada.
  • It is considered an exotic species.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Berberis × ottawensis 'Superba' is a vigorous, fast-growing, deciduous shrub.
  • It typically reaches a height and spread of around 2-2.5 meters (6-8 feet). However, some sources mention it could reach 3-4 meters tall.
  • The shrub exhibits an arching habit.
  • Its leaves are noted for their metallic deep-purple to reddish-purple color, which turns to fiery crimson-red shades in autumn. Some varieties have leaves that are "flushed silvery."
  • It produces yellow flowers in the spring, followed by orange or red berries in the autumn.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The shrub is sometimes used for "keeping unwanted visitors away".

Quirky Facts

  • It is sometimes used for "keeping unwanted visitors away from property" suggesting a possible deterrent due to its spiny nature.
  • The plant is considered suitable as a hedge for those that are looking for privacy/ security

Further Information

  • The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) offers help and information on this plant.
  • Pictures of this plant can be found on iStock and Thinkstock UK.
  • More information about this plant can be found on Wikimedia Commons.
  • Information can be found on iNaturalist.org.