Orange Rocket Barberry

Size

Orange Rocket Barberry, Berberis thunbergii Orange Rocket, provides a striking focal point in any shrub border. Its unusual upright habit and colorful foliage make this a fantastic centerpiece for any garden. The bright coral-orange colored foliage in the spring changes to red foliage in the fall.These shrubs are great planted by itself as a specimen or in a mass planting. We also like to use these as a colorful shorter deciduous hedge or border by planting several next to each other. The columnar habit makes this a fantastic plant for garden planters as a thriller and focal point of the container.Orange Rocket Barberry CareWhen planting, be sure to water regularly until the plant is established. This typically will take 3-4 months. Apply 1 to 2 inches of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, reduce weeds, and add extra protection against harsh weather conditions. Plant in full sun for best color, although the plant can also grow in partial shade.Apply a balanced slow release fertilizer each spring for best results. Once established, the plant is drought tolerant and can handle a variety of weather conditions with no issues. The plant does have tiny thorns on it, like most barberry do. So you can use these as a barrier plant too.Pruning Orange Rocket BarberryPrune back one third after spring after the plant has flushed out with new growth. This allows you to enjoy the brilliant coral-orange color of the new growth. This helps the plant to maintain compact shape. To rejuvenate older plants, you can remove some of the older stems all the way down to the ground. This allows the new branches to flourish.Orange Rocket Barberry SpacingPlant singly as a specimen or in a mass planting, 2 or 3 feet apart, center to center. You may also grow into a hedge by planting 18 inches apart, center on center. Another great idea is to plant these as column intervals to provide depth and height to the garden. Your friends, neighbors and family will surely comment on it once they see it.