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.
|
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. €7.10 | approx. €7.90 |
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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