Invasive barberry (Berberis thunbergii) is a small woody shrub that is typically between 1-2 feet in height. However, it can grow as tall as 6 feet. This species can thrive in both sun and shade. It is typically found in forests, old fields, pastures, along woodland edges, and roadsides. Invasive barberry is seed dispersed by birds and other wildlife. It has spines and small, oval shaped leaves with smooth edges. The leaves go from green to red into the fall. The flowers are small, yellow, and bloom in spring. The berries are bright red, egged shape, and stay on the plant into the winter.
There is a similar species called native barberry (Berberis canadensis). Native barberry has toothed leaves, which is the main difference between the native and invasive barberry. Ohio State University has a great article comparing Native barberry and Invasive barberry.
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Environmental Effects
Wildlife avoids browsing on this species because of its spines, giving it an advantage of dropping more seeds. Not only can this invasive barberry out compete native species, but it also alters the soil pH. This species releases nitrates in the soil that can last for many generations. This ultimately reduces pristine wildlife habitat opportunities. Research is still being completed but it appears that Invasive Barberry may be a host plant for black legged ticks, which can carry Lyme Disease.
Treatments
There are multiple treatment options for invasive barberry. These include both chemical and non-chemical options.
NON-CHEMICAL CONTROL METHODS
CHEMICAL CONTROL METHODS
- Pulling/digging: this species has shallow roots so pulling seedlings and small plants can be effective in areas with low density. Be sure to remove as much of the roots as possible, if any roots are left the plant may be able to resprout. Larger plants can be dug out with a shovel but be sure to tamp down disturbed soil and cover with leaves, if possible. Note: it is best to wear gloves to protect your hands from the spines.
- Cutting/mowing: repeated mowing and cutting can limit seed production and spreading of invasive barberry. Note: cutting alone with not be an effective control method. Resprouts will need to be sprayed with an herbicide to kill.
- Foliar application: herbicide is sprayed directly onto the foliage of the shrub. Plants should be sprayed in the summer after spring sap flow has begun. Note: herbicide sprayed onto nearby plants can cause them to die. Be sure to read the herbicide label and follow all directions.
- Cut stump: herbicide is applied to the outer rings of the cut stump. It must be applied within a few minutes of the cut to be effective. It is best to monitor the shrub for a year and spray any resprouts to fully kill the plant. Note: this should not be done in the spring as the plant will push the herbicide upwards and out of the plant completely.