Admiration Barberry

Botanical Name: Berberis thunbergii ‘Admiration’

Common Name: Admiration Barberry

Mature Height and Width:
12–18" tall × 18–24" wide

Growth Habit: Compact, dense, low-mounded deciduous shrub with tight branching and refined structure. Broader than tall with a rounded, cushion-like form. Slow to moderate growth rate.

Foliage Description: Small rounded leaves with deep red centers and distinct golden-yellow margins. Strong variegation contrast visible throughout growing season. Foliage densely arranged along short thorny stems.

Flower Description: Small pale yellow flowers in spring; secondary ornamental value.

Bloom Time: Mid-spring.

Fall Color: Intensified red tones; variegation remains visible.

Light Requirements: Full sun for strongest red coloration and crisp variegated margins.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 4–8

Notable Landscape Uses:
Foundation foreground; border edging; mass planting; container planting; color contrast accent; low hedge alternative.

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