Berberis thunbergii ‘Inspiration’ Care Guide

Berberis thunbergii ‘Inspiration’ is a striking deciduous shrub with a compact, upright habit and outstanding foliage colour. Its leaves are a vibrant mix of red, pink, cream, and green marbling, creating a unique, speckled effect that adds drama and contrast to borders, pots, and mixed plantings. This low-maintenance shrub also provides seasonal interest with small yellow spring flowers followed by bright red berries in autumn, which attract birds. Hardy and easy to grow, it’s a versatile choice for gardens large and small.

Planting & Position

Getting the position right ensures healthy growth and maximum colour impact.

• Light requirements:

  • Prefers full sun to partial shade.

  • Best variegation and vibrant colour develop in sunny spots.

• Soil:

  • Grows well in most well-drained soils, including clay, loam, and sandy types.

  • Tolerates a wide pH range, from acidic to slightly alkaline.

• Planting time:

  • Plant in spring or autumn when soil is moist and workable.

• Spacing:

  • Allow 60–80 cm between plants for borders or hedging.

  • Compact enough for smaller gardens or patio containers.

• Companion plants:

  • Contrasts beautifully with green or silver-leaved shrubs and grasses.

  • Works well alongside conifers, heucheras, or perennials with softer foliage.

Care & Maintenance

This barberry is hardy and easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established.

• Watering:

  • Water regularly during the first year until well-rooted.

  • Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering in prolonged dry spells.

• Feeding:

  • Apply a balanced shrub fertiliser in spring to encourage strong growth and vibrant foliage.

  • Mulch with compost or bark to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

• Pruning:

  • Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.

  • Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.

  • Can be trimmed more formally if grown as a low hedge.

• Pests & diseases:

  • Generally healthy and resistant, though aphids or powdery mildew may occasionally occur.

  • Good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues.

• Hardiness:

  • Very hardy, tolerating cold winters without protection.

Design Uses & Seasonal Interest

‘Inspiration’ is an eye-catching shrub that delivers colour and interest across the seasons.

• Containers & pots:

  • Compact growth and vibrant foliage make it perfect for large pots on patios or balconies.

• Borders & beds:

  • Adds colour contrast and texture to mixed borders.

  • Works especially well as an accent plant or grouped for bolder displays.

• Hedges & edging:

  • Can be planted as a low, colourful hedge, offering both structure and seasonal variety.

• Seasonal appeal:

  • Spring: Small yellow flowers attract pollinators.

  • Summer: Marbled, variegated leaves add vibrant colour.

  • Autumn: Striking red berries provide food for birds and extra interest.

  • Winter: Attractive twiggy framework offers structure in bare borders.

• Wildlife value:

  • Flowers support bees and other pollinators.

  • Autumn berries provide food for garden birds.

In summary: Berberis thunbergii ‘Inspiration’ is a compact, colourful shrub that delivers year-round interest with its marbled foliage, spring flowers, and autumn berries. Low-maintenance and hardy, it’s suitable for borders, containers, hedges, or as a bold accent plant. With minimal care—occasional feeding, light pruning, and regular watering when young—it will thrive and brighten gardens with its unique, multi-toned leaves and seasonal charm.

• Size
  2L, square pot

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

Click here for more information about our shipping conditions.

You can pay your online order either by credit card or via Paypal.
If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.