Berberis empetrifolia aka Berberis Empetrifolia

Berberis empetrifolia is a low, evergreen shrub in the barberry family, Berberidaceae. Its common names include heath barberry and golden barberry. It comes from Chile and western and southern Argentina. It grows in temperate regions, including waste ground near the sea. Plants For A Future records it up to 4,265 feet [1,300 metres]. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This bushy shrub grows wider than it grows tall. Garden plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] high. Their spread reaches about 4.9–8.2 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. The RHS gives five to ten years to reach full size. Green, needle-like leaves stay on the plant through winter. Its spines call for care when handling or trimming it. Bright orange flowers appear in spring, with black berries following in autumn. Plants For A Future describes fruits about a quarter-inch long.

Grow it in moist soil that drains well. It accepts chalk, clay, loam and sand. Acid, neutral and alkaline soils all suit it. It grows in sun or partial shade. Full sun gives the best flower and fruit display. The RHS lists both exposed and sheltered sites as suitable. It rates the plant H7 for UK hardiness. Plants For A Future gives USDA zones 6–9. These ratings come from different systems and should be read separately.

Its broad, low form suits beds, borders and informal gardens. The RHS also suggests coastal gardens, courtyards, pots, hedges and screens. Plants For A Future lists woodland gardens and shaded edges. Trim plants after flowering, following the RHS guidance. Semi-hardwood cuttings offer a way to raise more plants. Aphids and berberis sawfly may attack the shrub. Powdery mildew may also affect it. These are possible problems, rather than claims that every plant will suffer them.

The sources disagree about the safety of its fruit. Plants For A Future lists it as edible raw or cooked. That source reports no known hazards. The RHS instead warns people and pets not to eat the berries. Given this conflict, do not treat the fruit as confirmed safe. Follow the RHS advice to wear gloves and protective gear when handling it. Plants For A Future also records a yellow dye from roots and bark.