Botanical profile

Berberis thunbergii 'Aurea Nana'

Latin name
Berberis thunbergii 'Aurea Nana'
Common name
Dwarf Golden Barberry
Type
Ornamental shrub
Family
Berberidaceae

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.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 4–8
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate, drought tolerant once established
Fertilization
Little needed, light compost in spring
Soil type
Well-drained, tolerant
Minimum temperature
-34°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Pale yellow
Fruiting
Small, sparse red berries.
Foliage color
Golden yellow
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Rounded, compact
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
0.6 m (2 ft)
Width
0.8 m (2.5 ft)
Growth rate
Moderate
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Repellent
Helps repel certain pests

Repellent

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.