European Barberry
Berberis vulgaris |
 Other common names:
Common Barberry
French names:
Épine-vinette commune
Family:
Barberry Family (Berberidaceae)
Group:
Barberries
Distinctive features:
Shrub; Yellowish wood. Sharp 3-pronged spines. Obovate leaves. Fruits in bunches hanging down.
Similar species:
•
Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) - very similar.
•
American Barberry (Berberis canadensis) - not in Ontario.
Flowers:
Summer; Yellow; 6 parts (petals); Small, yellow, in drooping clusters.
Leaves:
Alternate, Simple, Toothed; Obovate leaves. Prominently spiny-toothed.
Height:
2-3 m (6-9 ft)
Trunk:
Wood is yellowish inside.
Fruit/Seeds:
In bunches hanging down.
Habitat:
Forests, Fields and Open Areas; Roadsides, fields, open areas, woods, thickets.
Books:
Newcomb's Wildflower Guide: 354
Native/Non-native:
Non-native
Status:
Common, alien, invasive.
Notes:
European Barberry is an alien escapee from gardens.
Origin and Meaning of Names:
Scientific Name: vulgaris: common (Latin)
Photographs:
55 photographs available, of which 15 are featured on this page. SCROLL DOWN FOR PHOTOGRAPHS.
Range Map is at the bottom of the page
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