As we all know, winter can be a challenging time for plants. Many don’t survive the cold, harsh conditions. So, does the orange rocket barberry make it through winter?
The orange rocket barberry is a hardy plant that can survive in cold winter climates. It thrives in cold weather and can tolerate temperatures down to -20 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit!
The orange rocket barberry is an excellent choice if you are looking for a tough shrub that will add color to your winter landscape.
The Orange Rocket Barberry
Berberis thunbergii ‘Orange Rocket’ is an award-winning shrub known for its vibrant leaves and scarlet berries. The leaves of this compact, upright shrub change color throughout the year, ranging from coral-orange in spring to mid-green in summer and finally to red-orange in fall.
The tiny, scented, pale yellow flowers appear in early summer but are quickly overshadowed by the abundant crop of bright crimson-red berries in the fall.
These berries are attractive to birds and often remain on the spiny stems after the leaves have fallen, providing interest and color through the winter months. The ‘Orange Rocket’ is perfect for borders or containers and will surely add beauty and excitement to any garden.
The plant is also deer resistant and drought tolerant once established.
Winter Cold Damage
Orange rocket barberry can tolerate cold temperatures down to -20 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if the plant is exposed to prolonged cold or freezing temperatures, it can suffer damage.
This is most likely to happen if the plant grows in a pot and is left outdoors during a cold snap. Keeping your orange rocket barberry plants in a protected spot, such as a garage or shed, is best if you live in an area with cold winters. You can also take them indoors and keep them on a sunny windowsill.
Caring for Orange Rocket Barberry in Winter
Even though orange rocket barberry is fairly tolerant of cold weather, it’s still a good idea to give it some extra care during winter.
One of the most common problems that orange rocket barberry face is damage from heavy winds. The leaves of the plant are relatively weak and can be easily broken. If you live in an area with high winds, it’s important to take steps to protect your orange rocket barberry.
One way to do this is to plant it near a wall or fence. This will provide some windbreaks and help keep your plant healthy. You can also cover it with a burlap cloth or tarp during windy days.
Another problem that orange rocket barberry can face is winter burn. This happens when the plant leaves are exposed to cold, dry winds. The leaves will turn brown and look dead, but the plant is not dead. To prevent winter burn, keeping your orange rocket barberry well-watered is essential.
For potted plants, be sure to water them regularly and move them indoors if exposed to prolonged cold or freezing temperatures.
What Does Orange Rocket Barberry Look Like in Winter?
The leaves fall off the orange rocket barberry in winter, revealing the bright red berries. These berries are attractive to birds and often remain on the spiny stems after the leaves have fallen, providing interest and color through the winter months.
Even without its leaves, the orange rocket barberry is an exciting plant that will add beauty to your winter landscape. So if you’re looking for a tough, cold-hardy shrub, the orange rocket barberry is an excellent choice.
When to Prune Orange Rocket Barberry
The best time to prune orange rocket barberry is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This will give the plant time to recover from the pruning and produce new leaves and flowers.
Pruning also helps to keep the orange rocket barberry compact and bushy. If you let it grow without pruning, it will become leggy and unattractive. To prune, cut back any long or straggly branches to the desired length.
Orange Rocket Barberry in Winter: Conclusion
The orange rocket barberry is a tough, cold-hardy shrub that can add beauty and excitement to any garden. It’s easy to care for and deer resistant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscaping.
So if you’re looking for a plant that will brighten up your winter landscape, the orange rocket barberry is a great choice.
Related article: Trees with Purple Leaves