BARBERRY (Berberis), a genus of about 175 species of shrubs of the family Ber bericlacece, natives of temperate climates. The yellow flowers are succeeded by red, dark blue or black fruit which in some species is used for making jellies of beautiful color and distinct flavor; that of some other species is dried and used like raisins. The yellow roots and sometimes the stems of several species are used in dyeing, and the bark of some in tanning. Many of the species are used for ornament and for hedges, but in wheat-growing sections they should not be planted, because they are host .plants for the mcidium stage of wheat-rust (Puccinia graminis), which, however, has been known to develop in localities remote from barberry bushes. B. vulgaris and its varieties and B. thunbergii (considered by some botanists a form of vulgaris) are probably the most com mon species planted in America. The former,
an American species, is a rather erect shrub about 10 feet tall, with large leaves and racemes of flowers which are followed by red fruits that persist during the winter and even well into the second summer; the latter, a Japanese species, is a low, spreading, graceful shrub with dainty little leaves which become brilliant red in autumn, and with solitary yellow flowers followed by orange-red persistent fruits. The stamens, which in many if not all species are sensitive, spring up when touched. Propaga tion is usually effected by means of seeds or cuttings of green wood, but sometimes by grafts and layers. For description of species cultivated for ornament in America, consult Bailey, 'Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture' (1914).