
Common Name: Japanese Kobold Barberry
Berberis thunbergii ‘Kobold’ (Kobold Barberry) A compact, dense deciduous shrub, Berberis thunbergii ‘Kobold’ forms a tight, rounded mound of small, rich green leaves. It produces tiny yellow flowers in spring, followed by small red berries that persist into fall. The foliage transitions to attractive shades of orange and red in autumn. Its naturally neat, low-growing habit makes it a reliable choice for structured plantings and low-maintenance landscapes. Type: Deciduous shrub Mature Size: 2–3′ W × 2–3′ H USDA Zones: 4a–8b Form: Dense, rounded, compact Light: Full sun to part shade (best color in full sun) Soil: Adaptable; tolerates a range of soils including clay Water: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established Bloom Time: Spring Bloom Length: Short; typically 1–2 weeks Wildlife: Birds (fruit) Features & Landscape Uses: Foundation plantings, low hedges, borders, mass plantings, edging, drought-tolerant landscapes Care: Very low maintenance. Prune as needed to maintain shape. Tolerates shearing well if a formal look is desired. Highly adaptable but avoid overly wet soils. Deer resistant.
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Shrub |
| Width: | 2-3' |
| Height: | 2-3' |
| Fragrant: | No |
| Fruit Color | Dark Red, Red |
| Zone: | 4 - 8 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | Yes |
| Attract: | Birds |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Late Spring, Spring |
| Bark Type: | Smooth |
| Landscape/Use: | Container, Foundation, Mass Planting |
| Shape: | Rounded, Compact, Mounded |
| Soil Type | Clay, Highly Adaptable |
| Flower Color: | Yellow |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Red, Yellow |