The Berberis thunbergii atropurpurea is a deciduous, slow-growing hedge, sitting at about 10-20cm per annum, which makes it the perfect choice when looking for a low, but prickly, hedge that offers an abundance of colours throughout the year- if you are suffering from Box blight, then this is the choice for you! It is especially useful when wanting to create colourful borders or edging to paths, considering its leaves give off a lovely, attractive, purple-red glow when caught in the sun.
As the season goes on, be ready to welcome wildlife to your garden with the Purple Berberis, as the orange berries that turn into a deep red are seen as a wonderful treat to the birds.
It is also easily maintainable (ideally at 1m high), due to it being such a slow grower.