Berberis vulgaris

Berberis vulgaris, also known as barberry, is a species of shrub in the family Berberidaceae. It is native to central and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and western Asia. It is also naturalized in northern Europe, including the British Isles and Scandinavia, and North America.

Description

Berberis vulgaris is a deciduous shrub growing up to 4 meters high. The leaves are small oval, 2–5 cm long and 1–2 cm broad, with a serrated margin; they are borne in clusters of 2-5 together, subtended by a three-branched spine 3–8 mm long. The flowers are yellow, 4–6 mm across, produced on a simple raceme 20–50 mm long in late spring. The fruit is an oblong red berry 7–10 mm long and 3–5 mm broad, ripening in late summer or autumn; they are edible but very sour.

Cultivation and uses

Berberis vulgaris is cultivated for its fruits in many countries. The berries are edible and rich in vitamin C, though with a very sharp flavor. In Europe, the berries have been traditionally used as an ingredient in making jam. The plant is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens for its attractive flowers and bright red berries.

The plant has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to ancient times. It has been used as a treatment for a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders, skin diseases, and infections. The plant contains several biologically active compounds, including berberine, which has been shown to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.

Ecology

Berberis vulgaris is a host plant for the larva of the moth species Argyresthia goedartella and Argyresthia conjugella. It is also a host plant for the rust fungus Puccinia graminis, a fungus that is very destructive to wheat crops. Because of this, cultivation of Berberis vulgaris is prohibited in many areas in the United States.

See also

• Berberis thunbergii
• Berberis aquifolium
• Berberis darwinii