Berberis thunbergii ?Golden Nugget?

Golden Dwarf Barberry

Berberis thunbergii ‘Golden Nugget’ is a compact, dwarf deciduous shrub valued for its bright golden-yellow foliage and neat, mounded habit. Small leaves emerge vibrant yellow in spring, hold their color through summer with best performance in some afternoon shade, and develop warm orange to reddish tones in fall, while small pale yellow flowers are followed by red berries that can persist into winter. Its dense growth and small size make it ideal for borders, mass plantings, and low-maintenance landscapes.

Type: Deciduous shrub

Mature Size:
Width: 2–3 ft
Height: 1.5–2 ft
(10-year size: approx. 1–2 ft tall × 1.5–2 ft wide)

USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Compact, dense, mounded; thorny branches
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best color with some afternoon protection)
Soil: Well-drained soils; tolerant of poor soils
Water: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Attracts birds (berries); deer resistant


Features & Landscape Uses


Bright golden foliage for strong color contrast



Compact size for borders, edging, and mass plantings



Dense habit provides good ground coverage



Good drought and urban tolerance




Care
Very low-maintenance. Plant in full sun to light shade; avoid harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. Prune lightly to maintain shape if needed. Tolerates drought, poor soils, and urban conditions. Note: may be considered invasive in some regions; check local guidelines before planting.

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub

Height

18-24''

Width

2-3'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

Gold

Leaf color

Sunglow

Fall color

Crimson, Gold, Orange

Fruit color

Dark Red, Red

Soil

Clay, Highly Adaptable, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Foundation, Mass Planting

Shape

Compact, Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Drought tolerant

Yes