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Berberis thunbergii ?Golden Ruby

Common Name: 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
Width:	3'-4'
Height:	2-3'
Fragrant:	Not verified
Fruit:	Not verified
Zone:	4–8
Deer Resistant:	Not verified
Salt Tolerant:	Not verified
Drought Tolerant:	Yes
Exposure:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Bloom Time:	Spring
Landscape/Use:	Container, Mass Planting, Accent Plant, Foundation Plant, Border
Shape:	Compact, Mounded
Soil Type	Well Drained, Highly Adaptable
Flower Color:	Yellow
Leaf Color:	Red