SEARCH PLANT

Powered by

Berberis thunbergii ?Golden Nugget?

Common Name: 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
Width:	2-3'
Height:	18-24''
Fragrant:	Not verified
Fruit:	Not verified
Fruit Color	Dark Red, Red
Zone:	4–8
Deer Resistant:	Not verified
Salt Tolerant:	Not verified
Drought Tolerant:	Yes
Exposure:	Full Sun
Bloom Time:	Late Spring, Spring
Bark Type:	Smooth
Landscape/Use:	Foundation, Mass Planting, Accent Plant
Shape:	Rounded, Compact
Soil Type	Clay, Well Drained, Highly Adaptable
Flower Color:	Gold
Leaf Color:	Sunglow
Fall Color:	Orange, Gold, Crimson