Crimson Pygmy Barberry

Botanical Name: Berberis thunbergii ‘Crimson Pygmy’

Common Name: Crimson Pygmy Barberry

Mature Height and Width:
18–24" tall × 24–36" wide

Growth Habit: Low, spreading deciduous shrub with dense branching and broad mounded form. Clearly wider than tall with outward-arching lower stems. Moderate growth rate.

Foliage Description: Small rounded leaves; deep burgundy to reddish-purple throughout growing season. Color intensity strongest in full sun. Matte surface; dense leaf coverage along thorny stems.

Flower Description: Small pale yellow flowers in spring; not a primary ornamental feature.

Bloom Time: Mid-spring.

Fall Color: Bright red tones before leaf drop.

Light Requirements: Full sun for strongest burgundy coloration and tightest structure.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 4–8

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

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