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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Creeping Barberry need?
- Creeping Barberry grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Creeping Barberry bloom?
- Creeping Barberry blooms in April and May.
- Where is Creeping Barberry native?
- Creeping Barberry (Berberis repens) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 13 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Creeping Barberry attract?
- Creeping Barberry draws bees and beetles.
- Is Creeping Barberry HOA-friendly?
- Creeping Barberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Creeping Barberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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