top of page

Berberis thunbergii 'Kobold'

Dwarf Japanese Barberry

$20

PB3

Mature height: 

40 - 50 cm

 Mature width:

40 - 50 cm

A delightful, dwarf deciduous shrub forming a flawless, tight, perfectly spherical cushion dome. Features small, glossy, bright green leaves that transform into a spectacular, roaring display of bright yellow, fiery orange, and glowing scarlet-red in autumn. Stems have small thorns.

Growing Conditions

Soil

Adaptable; thrives in average, well-drained loam, clay, or sandy soil.

Sunlight

Full sun to light partial shade; best autumn colours in open sun.

Flower

Inconspicuous tiny yellow flowers in spring, followed by small red berries.

Care & Maintenance

Berberis thunbergii 'Kobold' is a compact, deciduous shrub with rich green foliage that turns brilliant red in autumn.
• Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.
• Prune lightly in late winter to maintain its compact, mounded shape.
• Very hardy and tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions.
• Water occasionally during dry summer spells once established.

Common Uses for

Berberis thunbergii 'Kobold'

01

Low Geometric Border

Outlines formal beds and rose gardens with a crisp, low-profile, permanent ribbon of green-to-red spheres.

02

Rockery Miniature Feature

Nestles beautifully into stone crevices, gravel garden lips, and contemporary rockery layouts.

03

Japanese Zen Layouts

Excellent structural native alternative for trimmed boxwood or azalea balls in low-care courtyard grids.

04

Terrace Container Accent

Packs sunny outdoor containers with a neat, highly decorative mounded structural centerpiece.

Need Advice?

If you’re unsure whether this plant is right for your space, feel free to get in touch. We’re happy to help you with plant selection.

Visit Us Today

We’re a local, onsite nursery located in Alexandra.

All plants are selected and purchased in person so you can see quality, size, and suitability before you buy.

38 Hawley Road, Earnscleugh, Alexandra

Opening Hours

You’re welcome to visit during our open hours, or arrange a time that suits you by appointment.

August - May:

Tue, Wed, Thu | 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm

June - July:

By Appointment Only

bottom of page