Darwin 's Barberry 'Compacta'

Berberis darwinii 'Compacta' is a more manageable and refined version of the well-loved Darwin's Barberry, making it an excellent choice for a low to medium evergreen hedge. It shares the same beautiful, small, holly-like dark green leaves which are glossy and spine-toothed. In mid to late spring, the plant is transformed by a spectacular display of hanging clusters of rich orange-yellow flowers, often tinged with red. These flowers are a vital nectar source for early-season insects. The flowers are followed by edible, though tart, blue-black berries that are popular with birds. The 'Compacta' cultivar maintains a much denser and slower-growing habit than the species, rarely exceeding 1.2 metres. It is very hardy (H5) and thrives in most soil conditions, provided they are not waterlogged. Its prickly nature makes it an effective low-level security barrier. It can be lightly trimmed after flowering to maintain a neat shape.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Most well-drained soils.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.