Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Admiration'

Admiration Japanese Barberry

Family: Berberidaceae
Height: 1 to 2 feet
Width: 1 to 2 feet
Flower color: Small, pale yellow flowers
Foliage color: Bright reddish-purple foliage with striking golden-yellow margins, intensifying in fall
Bloom time: Mid to late spring
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Low to moderate
Maintenance: Low; prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain compact shape
Growing zone: USDA Zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Birds, drawn to the small red berries that appear in fall

About this plant

Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Admiration' is a compact deciduous shrub known for its vibrant, richly colored foliage. The small, rounded leaves emerge as a deep reddish-purple, accented by a bright golden-yellow margin that creates a bold and colorful effect. This dramatic foliage maintains its vivid coloration throughout the growing season, adding dynamic contrast to garden spaces. In late spring, small, pale yellow flowers bloom, providing a subtle complement to the richly hued leaves.

Originating as a carefully bred cultivar, 'Admiration' was selected for its compact size and vibrant, long-lasting foliage. Its neat, rounded form and year-round appeal make it an excellent choice for borders, foundation plantings, or container displays. With its brilliant color combination and minimal maintenance requirements, this barberry cultivar enhances a wide variety of garden styles and designs.

Works well in

Specimen Plants · Containers · Borders · Pathways & Walkways

Companion plants

Spirea · Feather reed grass · Catmint · Shasta daisy · Candytuft · Ornamental onion

Design tip

Rich burgundy foliage edged in gold makes a beautiful contrast against quieter greens, especially near the front of a border or along a walkway. Surrounding it with softer flowering plants and repeating touches of warm color nearby will give the garden an easy, coordinated feel.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at the Rogerson Clematis Garden.