
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: | No |
| Zone: | 4 - 8 |
| Deer Resistant: | No |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| 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 |