Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Rose Glow'

Purpleleaf Japanese Barberry, Rose Glow Barberry

Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea ‘Rose Glow’ — commonly known as Rose Glow Japanese Barberry — is a striking deciduous shrub prized for its mottled rose-pink, burgundy, and purple foliage. New growth emerges bright pink with creamy highlights, gradually maturing to deep purple, giving the plant a uniquely marbled appearance unmatched by solid-color barberries.

Small yellow flowers appear in spring, followed by red berries in fall that extend seasonal interest.

Key features
Width / spread: 4–6 ft
Height: 4–6 ft
Foliage: Pink, rose, burgundy, and purple mottling; best color in full sun
Flower color: Yellow (spring, not showy)
Fruit: Red berries (fall–winter)
Form: Dense, upright to rounded shrub
Life cycle: Deciduous shrub

Growing conditions
Sun: Full sun (best variegation) to light shade
Soil: Well-drained; adaptable to a wide range of soils
Water: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Hardiness:



Zone Low: 4a



Zone High: 8b



Landscape use
Accent and specimen plantings
Mixed shrub borders
Foundation plantings
Mass plantings for color variation
Contrast plantings with solid green or gold shrubs

Notes
One of the most colorful barberries available
Best foliage color occurs in full sun
More open habit than dwarf barberry selections
Spiny stems provide deer and rabbit resistance
Check local regulations, as Japanese barberry is restricted in some regions

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub

Height

4-6'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Red

Fall color

Orange Red

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Normal

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Foundation, Mass Planting

Shape

Oval/Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No