Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea 'Atropurpurea Nana'

barberry

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: slow to average
• Flowering period: April and May
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This dwarf, deciduous shrub has two seasons of interest. In mid-spring, red-tinted, pale yellow flowers appear and in autumn, the small, purple, spiky leaves turn a dazzling shade of red. It's size and the fact that it requires little attention means it is an ideal choice for a small garden, and it also makes an attractive, low informal hedge for a sunny or partially shady site.
  
  
• Garden care: Requires minimal pruning. Where some pruning is required, cut back in autumn or winter, after the appearance of the autumn fruits.