Dappled willow and Japanese barberry are often considered for the same spot in the garden (specimen, container, hedge). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Salix integra 2 m × 2 m after 10 years
Nurseries sell it almost only as the variegated cultivar 'Hakuro-nishiki': the spring shoots are dappled pink, white and green and turn mostly green…
Berberis thunbergii 1.5 m × 1.5 m after 10 years
A dense, spiny, undemanding deciduous shrub grown mainly for its green, burgundy, yellow or variegated foliage, vivid autumn colour and red berries…
Japanese barberry is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -29 °C for Dappled willow.
Japanese barberry tolerates drought better than Dappled willow.
Japanese barberry needs less water than Dappled willow.
Japanese barberry needs less care than Dappled willow.
Japanese barberry is cheaper: about €8.70 at the size usually planted, against about €13 for Dappled willow.
|
Feature
|
Dappled willow
|
Japanese barberry
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Shrub | Shrub |
| Size after 10 years | 2 m × 2 m | 1.5 m × 1.5 m |
| Ultimate size | 1.5–3 m × 1.5–3 m | 0.9–1.8 m × 1–2.1 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Medium |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Acidic, Calcareous | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | March–May, yellow | April–May, yellow |
| Water need | High | Low |
| Drought tolerance | Low | High |
| Maintenance | High | Low |
| Planting distance | 150 cm | 60 cm |
| For children | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Mildly toxic |
| Typical price | approx. €13 | approx. €8.70 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 8, 2026
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