Berberis triacanthophora
Common name: 
Threespine Barberry
Wisley Barberry
Pronunciation: 
BER-ber-is tri-a-kan-THOF-ora
Family: 
Berberidaceae
Genus: 
Berberis
Synonyms: 
Berberis × wisleyensis
Type: 
Broadleaf
Native to (or naturalized in) Oregon: 
No
  • Broadleaf evergreen shrub, 4-6 ft (1.2-1.8 m) high, similar width, rounded, open, especially in the shade.  Branches have three-parted spines, 1-2 cm long.  Leaves simple, alternate, narrow and strap-like, about 2-7 cm long and 1cm wide, sometimes 3-4 together at node, margin has 5-15 bristle-like teeth per side, bright green, somewhat glaucous on the underside, older leaves may turn purplish in winter.  Flowers pale yellow or whitish, tinged with red outside, about 2 cm, blooms in spring.  Fruit ellipsoid, glossy black, 8 mm.
  • Sun or partial shade
  • Hardy to USDA Zone 5    Native to Central China
  • Oregon State Univ. campus: west of Gilkey Hall near sidewalk.
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  • plant habit

    plant habit

  • leaves and spines (thorns)

    leaves and spines (thorns)

  • flowers and leaves

    flowers and leaves