Berberis thunbergii Red Chief

Berberis thunbergii Red Chief

Why Buy Me?

• Brightly coloured foliage
• Can be used for a low growing hedge
• Great Autumn colour

Key Features

• Height & Spread: Typically reaches 1.5–2.5 meters (5–8 feet) in height and 1–1.5 meters (3–5 feet) in width.

• Foliage: Narrow, deep purple-red leaves emerge in spring, transitioning to a bright red in autumn.

• Flowers: Small, pale yellow blooms with red-tinged sepals appear in spring.

• Berries: Produces deep red berries in autumn, which attract birds.

• Hardiness: Fully hardy, tolerating temperatures as low as -20°C

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to partial shade; best foliage colour in full sun.

• Soil: Well-drained soils, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand.

• Moisture: Moist but well-drained; drought-tolerant once established.

• pH: Acidic, neutral, or alkaline soils.

• Exposure: Suitable for both sheltered and exposed positions.

Planting & Care

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or early autumn.

• Spacing: Space plants 1–1.5 metres (3–5 feet) apart.

• Watering: Water well during the first growing season to establish a strong root system.

• Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

• Pruning: Light pruning in late spring or early summer to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged wood.

• Mulching: Apply a 5–7 cm (2–3 inch) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base after pruning.

Seasonal Interest

• Spring: New growth emerges deep purple-red.

• Summer: Foliage remains vibrant; small yellow flowers bloom.

• Autumn: Leaves turn bright red; red berries appear.

• Winter: Persistent berries add ornamental interest.

Wildlife & Garden Use

• Attracts: Birds, especially during the berry-bearing season.

• Uses: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, container planting, and as a low-maintenance hedge.

• Companion Plants: Pairs well with other shrubs and perennials that enjoy similar growing conditions

Transform your home and garden with Berberis thunbergii Red Chief —a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.