Berberis linearifolia ‘Orange King’ – Bold Colour and Year-Round Structure
Berberis linearifolia ‘Orange King’ is a striking ornamental barberry, valued for its dazzling spring flowers and robust, low-maintenance nature. In April and May, the plant erupts into a spectacular display of fiery orange blooms, each cluster glowing against the dark, slender green leaves. The colour is intense and long-lasting, drawing bees and early pollinators to the garden.
The arching, spiny stems give ‘Orange King’ a natural grace while also making it an excellent choice for barrier planting or hedging where extra security is desired. Through summer, its glossy foliage stays fresh and neat, before warming to rich autumnal tones of red and bronze. In winter, its intricate branch structure and evergreen to semi-evergreen presence maintain interest.
Resilient and adaptable, ‘Orange King’ thrives in most soils, copes with exposed conditions, and is wind- and drought-tolerant once established. It works equally well as a free-standing specimen, a mixed border plant, or a clipped informal hedge.
Why Choose Berberis linearifolia ‘Orange King’?
-
Intense Spring Colour – Masses of bright orange flowers.
-
Wildlife-Friendly – Early nectar source for bees.
-
Hardy & Low Maintenance – Tolerates challenging conditions.
-
Security Planting – Thorny branches deter intruders.
-
All-Season Appeal – Foliage colour shift and winter structure.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Full sun or partial shade; best flowering in sunny spots.
Soil: Any well-drained soil, including poor or dry ground.
Watering: Water regularly during the first season; drought-tolerant thereafter.
Feeding: Apply a slow-release fertiliser in early spring.
Pruning: Lightly trim after flowering to maintain shape; remove old stems to encourage new growth.
Design & Planting Ideas
-
Use as a vivid spring highlight in mixed borders.
-
Plant as a low, colourful hedge with seasonal interest.
-
Combine with blue or purple-flowering plants for bold contrast.
-
Include in wildlife-friendly gardens for early nectar.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.