Nevin’s barberry (Berberis nevinii) is a striking evergreen flowering shrub. Nevin’s barberry with bright yellow flowers that is absolutely striking in full bloom in spring and also has attractive leaves and berries. The flowers are cup-shaped and appear in clusters against the dense, dark green to bluish-green leaves. The red to dark blue berries hang in bunches.
This is an erect shrub growing in full sun and soil that is well-drained. It is slow growing, usually to 5 feet tall and sometimes 13 feet. It is very cold hardy, heat tolerant, and can handle regular summer water. Because the leaves are quite spiny, it is best planted away from walkways and can serve as a barrier hedge.
It is deer-resistant and attracts birds and butterflies. Western Bluebirds are especially fond of the berries. It is a federally and state listed endangered species that is widely cultivated in gardens and parks.