Berberis Thunbergii Orange Dream

Berberis thunbergii Orange Dream or Japanese Barberry Orange Dream
Berberis thunbergii Orange Dream also called the Japanese Barberry Orange Dream, grows as a compact, upright, deciduous shrub. During the spring months, this little shrub looks like it is ablaze with brilliant coin-sized coral-orange leaves. As the foliage matures, it takes on a bright mid-greenish hue. In the autumn, the foliage turns to a brilliant reddish-orange before falling.

In the early summer months, tiny pale yellow flowers develop that boast a heavenly subtle fragrance. Following flowering, Berberis Orange Dream develops bright-crimson red berries that persist into autumn. The berries are a favourite food source for birds and other woodland creatures, although the thorny stems often deter intruders. If the berries are not readily consumed, they will remain on the spiny stems into the winter months, even after the foliage has fallen.

The bright and cheerful Japanese Barberry Orange Dream is a relatively new cultivar and is an ideal way to brighten up any garden. It grows in a tight columnar habit to a height of 120 to 150 centimeters and a width of 60 to 90 centimeters. When young, the Barberry Orange Dream can be trimmed back to encourage basal branching. Once fully grown, it requires no trimming to maintain its good looks.

Plant the Berberis thunbergii Orange Dream in full sun to obtain the best foliage colours. It grows best when planted in well-draining soil. It does not like soggy conditions and good drainage is essential for the plant’s overall health and growth. It prefers to be grown in dry to moderately dry conditions. The shrub is not overly fussy about soil types and will grow in just about anything. It is highly adaptable and will even thrive in coastal gardens where it is exposed to salt spray. It is fairly pest free and rarely suffers from any plant diseases. Once established, this hardy little shrub is truly carefree and will become a valued addition to your landscape.

The Japanese Barberry Orange Dream is an excellent choice for any garden setting. It can be grown as a single specimen, mass planted to form a small low hedge, placed in borders or can easily be grown in a container. Orange Dream is ideal for woodland gardens because it is deer and rabbit resistant. Overall, this an invaluable small compact shrub and one of the most brilliant for autumn foliage colour and bright red berries.