Description:

A more upright shrub with rich bluish-green foliage all summer long, turning to brilliant orange-red in fall; very showy, great as a color contrast in the landscape; plant on slopes, in beds, as border

Ornamental Features

Mentor Barberry has attractive bluish-green deciduous foliage which emerges chartreuse in spring on a plant with an upright spreading habit of growth. The small oval leaves are highly ornamental and turn an outstanding red in the fall. It has clusters of yellow flowers hanging below the branches in mid spring, which are interesting on close inspection.

Landscape Attributes

Mentor Barberry is a dense multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This shrub will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and can be pruned at anytime. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Spiny

Mentor Barberry is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• Hedges/Screening
• General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Mentor Barberry will grow to be about 6 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 6 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 20 years.

This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist growing conditions, but will not tolerate any standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This particular variety is an interspecific hybrid.