Japanese Barberry – 10/7/10

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 10/7/10

Observation Time: 3:15 p.m.

Observation Location: end of Lee Road

Common Name: Japanese Barberry

Scientific Name: Berberis thunbergii

Comments: This specimen was a few yards beyond the end of Lee Road near the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp drainage ditch. Japanese barberry is often planted for hedges, and easily spreads to natural areas, as this specimen evidently did.

“In recent years the plant has been recognized as an invasive species in parts of the eastern United States; it is avoided by deer and has been replacing native species. Further, the plant raises the pH of the soil and affects its nitrogen levels. In Canada its cultivation is prohibited as the species can act as a host for Puccinia graminis (black rust), a rust disease of wheat. Currently there are breeding and selection programs aimed at producing cultivars that are either sterile or produce relatively little seed.” Wikipedia

More Information: Wikipedia