Purple dwarf barberry forms a neat, thorny mound 50–60 cm tall, densely clothed in deep‑red leaves that intensify in summer and blaze scarlet in autumn. Tiny yellow spring flowers attract early bees, while bright red berries decorate the shrub through winter, feeding birds. Extremely drought‑tolerant and pollution‑resistant, it thrives in full sun on most well‑drained soils and is perfect for edging, rockeries or low security hedges. Little pruning is needed beyond an occasional trim to shape, making it a colourful, low‑maintenance choice for urban gardens.