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barberry

Scientific Name: Berberis

Family: Berberidaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Berberis vulgaris: Exploring the European Barberry

The European barberry, scientifically known as Berberis vulgaris, is a well-known shrub with a rich history and diverse uses.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that Barberry is a thorny shrub.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions that Barberry is a thorny shrub.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Berberis vulgaris L.
  • Common Names: European barberry, Barberry
  • Family: Berberidaceae (Barberry Family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Commonly found in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
  • Grows in copses and hedges, particularly in some parts of England.

Morphological Characteristics

  • A bushy shrub with pale-green deciduous leaves.
  • Known for its vibrant red or purple-red foliage, which turns reddish-orange in the fall.
  • Thorny shrub with grey bark and branching structure.
  • Typically has yellow flowers and red or blue-black berries.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Barberry has a long history in traditional medicine, dating back over 2,500 years.
  • Used in Indian folk medicine to treat diarrhea, reduce fever, and improve appetite.
  • The root and berries have been traditionally used for digestive and urinary health, inflammation, and skin health.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The Barberry Carpet moth (Pareulype berberata) relies on barberry. This moth is a protected species in Britain and a priority species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Additional Information

  • The berries are edible but sharply acidic and used in Iranian cooking, known as "zereshk" or "Pipperages."
  • Mentioned in the context of property development ("Barberry Developments") and various commercial products ("Barberry Coast Shave Co.", "Barberry Slim Chino").