Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Gentry'
Royal Burgundy Japanese Barberry
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Small, pale yellow flowers
- Foliage color
- Deep burgundy leaves that retain their rich color through the growing season, turning brighter red in fall
- Bloom time
- Mid to late spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Low to moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; prune in late winter or early spring
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Birds, attracted to the small red berries that appear in fall
About this plant
Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Gentry', commonly known as Royal Burgundy Japanese barberry, is a deciduous shrub prized for its deep burgundy foliage that maintains its rich color throughout the growing season. In spring, small, pale yellow flowers emerge, offering a soft contrast to the dark leaves. By autumn, the plant produces bright red berries that persist into winter, adding a splash of seasonal color and providing food for birds.
This cultivar, a refined selection of Berberis thunbergii, was bred for its compact size and intense foliage coloration. Its dense, rounded growth habit makes it an excellent choice for low hedges, foundation plantings, or mixed borders. With its rich hues and seasonal interest, 'Gentry' enhances a variety of garden styles and offers year-round visual appeal.
Works well in
Pathways & Walkways · Foundation Plantings · Borders · Specimen Plants
Companion plants
Yarrows · Caryopteris · Sea holly · Rock rose · Penstemon · Blue fescue
Design tip
A sweep of rich burgundy foliage can bring depth to a sunny planting and make nearby flowers appear even brighter. Group several together for a colorful hedge, or weave individual plants through a mixed border to carry deeper tones naturally across the garden.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the Oregon display garden at Monrovia.
