Salmon barberry
Berberis aggregata
Family: Berberidaceae
What it is like
A deciduous shrub. It grows 1.5 m high. It spreads 1.8 m wide. The leaves are oblong. They have teeth at the tip. The leaves are grey-green and 30 mm long. The leaves turn deep red in autumn. The flowers are pale yellow. They are in clusters in the axils of leaves. These are 2.5 cm long. The fruit are red with a grey bloom. They are 6 mm across.
There are about 450-500 Berberis species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It can grow in sun or light shade. It is best with moist, well-drained alkaline soil. It is resistant to drought and frost. It suits hardiness zones 6-9. In Sichuan.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, China (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The fruit can be eaten fresh or used in preserves, desserts and sauces.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed. Stored seed need 2-3 months of cold stratification before sowing. It can be grown from cuttings taken in midwinter.