Japanese Barberry Maria An unusual hybrid barberry, good as a hedge or a specimen, Berberis thunbergii Maria is a slow-growing, deciduous, dwarf shrub with an upright, bushy, columnar habit. The leaves emerge red and turn golden-yellow, a lovely contrast to the red stems, then lovely tints of red and orange in autumn. They do not scorch in hot sun, and retain their colour well, although they will turn greenish if grown in shade. Inconspicuous pale yellow flowers appear April–May, followed by small, red berries, very popular with birds. Also known as Sunjoy Gold Pillar, Japanese Barberry Maria is a much tougher plant than it looks, retaining its shape and colour all year long. Holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Site: Will tolerate exposureSoils: Any reasonably well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or light shadeSeason of interest: All yearHardiness: Very hardyHeight up to 4’ (1.20m) Spread to 3’ (90cm)