Botanical profile

Berberis thunbergii 'Cherry Bomb'

Latin name
Berberis thunbergii 'Cherry Bomb'
Common name
Barberry 'Cherry Bomb'
Type
Shrub
Family
Berberidaceae

Berberis thunbergii 'Cherry Bomb', also known as Japanese Barberry 'Cherry Bomb', is a compact and very colorful ornamental shrub that catches the eye with its intense purple foliage from spring, a dense and rounded silhouette, and then often decorative berries in autumn that enrich the seasonal palette. Its moderate and harmonious growth makes it an excellent choice for borders, low hedges, colorful beds, or contrasting plantings in residential gardens in Quebec. Very hardy and easy to maintain, it prefers sunny to semi-shady exposure and well-drained soil, and is resistant to urban conditions. Thanks to its foliage that persists for a large part of the season and its controlled vigor, 'Cherry Bomb' combines visual interest, refined texture, and landscape versatility, while perfectly integrating into floral and structural compositions of landscaping.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 4
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Moderate watering
Fertilization
Slow-release fertilizer 14-7-14 or 4-2-8. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke at planting.
Soil type
Neutral to slightly alkaline, well drained
Minimum temperature
'-35°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
YELLOW
Fruiting
Small, decorative red berries in autumn
Foliage color
Burgundy
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Shrubby
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
1 to 1.2 m (39 to 48 inches)
Width
1 m (3 feet)
Growth rate
average
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.