Rubrostilla Barberry (Berberis rubrostilla)

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

Berberis rubrostilla is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July. 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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. Fairly large for a barberry, it is pear shaped with an acid flavour. It can be eaten raw in small quantities, though most people would probably prefer to cook it in pies, preserves etc. The fruits are about 15mm long. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Fairly large for a barberry, it is pear shaped with an acid flavour.; It can be eaten raw in small quantities, though most people would probably prefer to cook it in pies, preserves etc.; The fruits are about 15mm long.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in the wild. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)