Barberry is a thorny bush that typically grows 2 to 3 meters tall with a spread of 2 meters. Its abundant and ornamental flowering occurs in April-May, with clusters of attractive yellow flowers that attract pollinators. These flowers give rise, in September, to a profusion of small oval fruits that turn from green to bright red when ripe.

These fruits, rich in vitamins, are an essential source of food for birds during the winter.
In summer, the soft green foliage turns a beautiful reddish-orange in autumn before falling. Although very acidic, the fruit of the Berberis is not very edible raw or dried, but it can enrich sweet or savory dishes, and is often made into jam or juice.

Due to its decorative qualities, barberry is often used as an ornamental plant in hedgerows, but it can also be planted as a standalone plant or in a clump.