Trees and shrubs

Dwarf Golden Barberry

Berberis thunbergii

Format

Share
Exposure
Half-sun
Hardiness
Zone 4

Discover the plant

Common nameDwarf Golden Barberry
FamilyBerberidaceae
GenusBarberry
Speciesthunbergii
CultivarDwarf Golden
TypeOrnamental shrub
Botanical nameBerberis thunbergii

Berberis thunbergii 'Aurea Nana', or golden dwarf Japanese barberry, is a compact and bright shrub, prized for its dazzling golden-yellow foliage, which illuminates borders and beds throughout the season. Its dense and rounded habit, naturally regular, makes it an excellent choice for low borders, rockeries, miniature hedges, or container growing. In spring, small pale yellow flowers appear discreetly, followed by decorative red berries at the end of the season, extending the visual interest. Undemanding and very tolerant, 'Aurea Nana' provides structure, contrast, and vivid color, while requiring little maintenance. It is a reliable choice for creating lasting bright accents in landscape designs.

Épine-vinette du Japon ‘Aurea Nana’ (Berberis thunbergii)

Planting guide

From planting to establishment.

Propagation Semi-hardwood cuttings

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Soil pH

Neutral to slightly alkaline

Minimum temperature

-34°C

Care level

Weak

Watering

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Soil type

Well-drained, tolerant

Fertilization

Little needed, light compost in spring

Moisture

Low to medium

Seasonal care

In spring, remove dead, weak, or broken branches and prune lightly as needed to maintain a dense and rounded shape. More structural pruning can be done after flowering if necessary. Add a thin layer of mulch to limit weeds and water during dry periods, especially during the first two years.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Well-suited for container gardening, in low troughs or decorative pots due to its compact size and moderate growth. Choose a container with excellent drainage, use well-drained potting mix, and water regularly during establishment. In winter, protect the pot from freeze-thaw cycles, especially if the container is exposed to wind.
Épine-vinette du Japon ‘Aurea Nana’ (Berberis thunbergii)

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

45-60 cm (18-24 in.)

Width / spread

0.8 m (2.5 ft)

Flower color

Pale yellow

Foliage color

Golden yellow

Foliage type

Obsolete

Growth rate

Moderate

Growth habit

Bushy compact rounded

Bloom period

Spring

Fruiting

Small, sparse red berries.
Épine-vinette du Japon ‘Aurea Nana’ (Berberis thunbergii)

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Dwarf conifers, spireas, potentillas, junipers, ornamental grasses, purple heucheras, sedums, lavenders

Wildlife and pets

Life,around your plants.

Supporting wildlife

Its small yellow spring flowers can attract bees and other pollinating insects. Its decorative red berries can also be of interest to certain birds at the end of the season.