Orfei

Barberry Orfeus – a decorative shrub with a height ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 m, featuring a compact crown and light green leaves. The leaves have an inverse oval shape, measuring about 6 cm in length and 4 cm in width, with spiny-toothed edges; each leaf has three spines approximately 1 cm long. The shrub does not flower or fruit, but its small dark crimson berries, rich in vitamins and minerals, can serve as a treat for birds.

Orfeus is distinguished by its resistance to pests and diseases, medium winter hardiness, and ability to withstand heat and drought. The plant is low-maintenance regarding soil: it prefers sunlit areas but does not require special conditions. It is recommended to plant in the autumn – dig a pit 40 cm deep and 40 cm in diameter with drainage, adding nutrient-rich soil with wood ash. After planting, water the shrub and mulch it.

Care for barberry Orfeus is simple: water once a week during drought, annual fertilization with nitroammophoska in spring, removal of dry and pest-infested shoots, and autumn sanitary pruning. It reproduces by dividing the bush (after 5 years) and green cuttings. Thanks to its compactness and resistance to adverse conditions, it is widely used in gardening as a living fence, a solitary plant, or a border along flower beds.