Berberis thunbergii ?Golden Ruby

Golden Ruby Barberry

Berberis thunbergii ‘Golden Ruby’ is a compact deciduous shrub prized for its striking bi-color foliage, featuring rich red centers edged with bright golden-yellow margins. Leaves emerge vividly colored in spring, maintain strong contrast through summer, and develop deeper red to orange tones in fall, while small pale yellow flowers are followed by red berries that can persist into winter. Its bold foliage and dense, mounded habit make it a standout in borders and color-themed plantings.

Type: Deciduous shrub

Mature Size:
Width: 3–4 ft
Height: 2–3 ft
(10-year size: approx. 2–3 ft tall × 2–3 ft wide)

USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Compact, mounded, dense; thorny branches
Light: Full sun (best color intensity)
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


Unique red and gold variegated foliage



Strong color contrast for borders and accents



Compact size for massing or foundation plantings



Good drought and urban tolerance




Care
Very low-maintenance. Plant in full sun for best color development. Prune lightly as needed to maintain shape. 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

2-3'

Width

3'-4'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Red

Soil

Highly Adaptable, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Container, Foundation Plant, Mass Planting

Shape

Compact, Mounded

Drought tolerant

Yes