Magellan Barberry (Berberis buxifolia)

Family: Berberidaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Berberis buxifolia is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower in April. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant flavour, they are eaten out of hand. — Fruit - raw or used in conserves.; Freely borne in Britain.; Large and black with a pleasant flavour, they are eaten out of hand.; Said to be the best flavoured of the South American barberries, the fruit is hardly acid and but slightly astringent.

Habitat & North American Range

Coastal scrub, forest margins, clearings and moister areas in grass. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)