Berberis Thunbergii Atropurpurea Concorde

Berberis Thunbergii Atropurpurea Concorde or Japanese Barberry Concorde is an extremely tough and versatile low growing variety of Berberis with an attractive dome shape. Its distinctive dark red-purple foliage is striking. Berberis Concorde has received both the RHS Award of Garden Merit and Perfect for Pollinators badge.

Native to Japan, this Berberis Concorde cultivar is noted for its dark red-purple foliage and maintains this striking colour throughout the spring and summer before turning a bright scarlet in autumn for yet another colour sensation! Small yellow flowers emerge in the spring at the same time as the leaves, and are followed by bright red berries in autumn. In winter, the thorny black bare stems have an architectural appeal of their own.
Completely hardy throughout the UK and northern Europe, Japanese Barberry Concorde will grow to a mature height and spread of 0.5 - 1 metre in 10 to 20 years. Naturally growing into a rounded dome shape, it will respond well to pruning, but be sure to wear gloves, as Berberis Thunbergii Atropurpurea Concorde has thorns! If planting in groups or as a low hedge, space plants 60-90 cm apart. 

Plant Berberis Thunbergii Atropurpurea Concorde in full sun or partial shade in any well-drained soil in an exposed or sheltered position. Full sun will result in better autumn colour. Resistant to pollution and salt, Japanese Barberry Concorde will do well in both coastal regions and in city gardens. Deer and rabbits do not like the thorns that cover the branches, so these small shrubs are perfectly suited to country gardens as well. 
With its small size and dramatic colouring, Japanese Barberry Concorde is a good candidate for container planting on a rooftop terrace or patio, where it will provide three seasons of colour. A specimen plant in a mixed border will add a bit of drama and act as a balance to brightly coloured flowers. Planted as a low boundary hedge, the thorny branches of Berberis Thunbergii Atropurpurea Concorde will help discourage animals from wandering into your garden, and if planted in a mass planting on a difficult slope, it will provide effective erosion control. 

No matter where you plant your Berberis Concorde, its dramatic foliage colouring, compact size, and low-maintenance qualities will make it a winner!