Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergia) is a species of flowering plant in the barberry family, native to Japan and eastern Asia.
Annual Growth Rate: 1-2 ft.
Location (Throughout Park):
Widespread
Forests
Dense stands exist around Bushman Hill and Big Round Top
Impact:
Changes the pH of the soil which can exclude native plant species.
Dense thickets displace native species reducing biodiversity.
Dense barberry growth creates a microclimate that is ideal for ticks which are vectors of Lyme disease.
Management:
Park biologists are monitoring existing locations and are addressing new growth areas as they are detected. The most effective method for managing growth and spread of the Japanese Barberry is twofold. Repeated mowing of stems close to the ground, pulling out small to medium plants, along with application of herbicides, and, when possible, prescribed burns.
What Can You Do?
As a devoted visitor to Gettysburg National Military Park, you can see the direct impact the Japanese Barberry is having on your park. During the warm weather months, we host a series of Volunteer Work Days. Sign up for one or all of these to lend a hand! You have the opportunity to aid our staff to combat this invading species and perhaps slow or halt their march across our fields, our hills, our stone walls, our fences, or even around our monuments.
Assisting the park by cutting Japanese Barberry, as Park biologists follow up with herbicide treatment.
