Allegheny Barberry (Berberis canadensis)

Family: Berberidaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Berberis canadensis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Leaves, Flowers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. Agreeably acid, they are an acceptable raw fruit in small quantities but are more commonly used in preserves. The fruits are about 9mm long. Leaves - raw. A trailside nibble. Flowers. No more details. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Agreeably acid, they are an acceptable raw fruit in small quantities but are more commonly used in preserves.; The fruits are about 9mm long.; A trailside nibble.

Habitat & North American Range

Banks of streams and dry woods. In woods or glades, on rocky slopes and near rivers at elevations of 100 - 700 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)