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Key characteristics

Family: Berberidaceae
Height: Up to 2 feet
Width: 2 feet
Flower color: Small, pale yellow flowers
Foliage color: Bright golden-yellow tipped foliage with hints of orange and red
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 to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA Zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Birds, attracted to the small red berries that develop in fall

Shrubs

Berberis thunbergii 'Goruzam'

Golden Ruby Japanese Barberry

Berberis thunbergii 'Goruzam', commonly known as Golden Ruby Japanese barberry, is a compact deciduous shrub admired for its vibrant, evolving foliage. The rounded leaves emerge in spring as a bright golden yellow, with the yellow color persisting along the edges as the center transitions to shades of ruby red throughout the growing season. In late spring, small pale yellow flowers bloom, adding a subtle accent to the colorful display.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Low to moderate

Bloom time

Mid to late spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Foundation Plantings
Containers
Borders
Pathways & Walkways

Companion plants

Holly · Daisy bush · Tulips · Pineapple lily · Salvias · Rose campion

Design tip

Tuck this compact shrub near the front of a border, along a walkway, or into a colorful container where its changing foliage can shine. Pair it with calmer greens and flowering perennials to balance the bold color and create an inviting, layered garden.