Creeping Barberry
Berberis repens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 18"–36" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A low-growing evergreen shrub with holly-like leaves that turn bronze-purple in winter. It produces clusters of bright yellow flowers in spring followed by blue berries, making it an attractive groundcover or foundation plant.
In an HOA neighborhood
Creeping Barberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles, while the berries provide food for birds. The evergreen foliage offers year-round shelter for small wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Creeping Barberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.