
Herb Directory

Barberry
Alternative Name:
berberis vulgaris
Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) is native to Europe, where it is commonly used as an ornamental shrub. It has also found a home in North America. Its close relative, Berberis aquifolium, known as Oregon grape, is native to North America.
Historians believe that barberry originated in three places: Europe, parts of North Africa, and Asia. Chinese medicine has documented its use for over 3,000 years. The berries, though rich in vitamin C, have a sharp flavor and are not widely consumed due to the thorny shrubs.
In Europe, they’ve been traditionally used for making jam, thanks to their high pectin content. In Iran, barberries are a common ingredient in rice pilaf, known as zerešk. Iran is the largest producer of these tart, seedless fruits.