Gold Barberry

Botanical Name: Berberis thunbergii (gold-leaf selections such as ‘Aurea’ / ‘Golden’)

Common Name: Gold Barberry

Mature Height and Width:
3–4' tall × 3–4' wide

Growth Habit: Broad, dense, rounded deciduous shrub with moderately upright interior stems and outward-arching outer branches. Balanced mound form; moderate growth rate.

Foliage Description: Small rounded leaves; bright chartreuse to golden-yellow coloration in full sun. Color may soften slightly to yellow-green in partial shade. Matte surface; dense foliage along thorny stems.

Flower Description: Small pale yellow flowers in spring; minor ornamental significance.

Bloom Time: Mid-spring.

Fall Color: Yellow to orange tones before leaf drop.

Light Requirements: Full sun for strongest golden coloration and compact growth.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 4–8

Notable Landscape Uses:
Foundation mass planting; color contrast planting; hedge alternative; border planting; parking island; visual brightening element in dark landscapes.

Deer Resistance: High
Barberries are generally avoided by deer due to thorny stems and foliage structure.