Late Winter Plants: The Barberry Family

Berberidaceae 

This wonderful family of plants has lots of winter interest and many interesting uses. I've been focusing on the genus of Berberis (Barberry) and Mahonia (Oregon Grape) due to their color this time of year.

Berberis sp.

What makes them stand out this time of year?

Berberis darwinii

- Evergreen (mostly all)

- Beautiful small flowers      

- Plethora of foliage colors

Cultural Uses:

Mahonia aquifolium

- High Vitamin C content kept Scury at bay for many native people
- Acne Cure made by the Slaishan native from the bark and root
- Eyedrops use berberine a chemical found in the plant in some brands
- Ailments such as Gout, Fever, Cancer, Hypertention and more are treated sometimes with barberry
- Барбарис is a candy made from Barberries

Plants: Designing for Winter

Hellebore (Helleborus sp.) 

       
         The beauty of these plants is often overlooked; because their flowers hang facing the ground. The simple beauty is in the leaves, flowers and stems and how the plant grows. Varieties of foliage, and flower composition are endless, to the point where experts can't identify some of them as hellebores. I suggest if you spot one, take a moment to bend over and look at the flowers.

What Makes Hellebores Unique:

• They’ve been used over history for weight loss and conquering enemies
• There are over 20 species and so diverse that experts can’t identify all of them
• As long as their soil is well drained they will be long lived  (2 years and up)

 

        This plant is easy to find in nurseries, the other day I found them in a home improvement store. Growing them means you only need to kick back and enjoy them. 

Generally, stopping to look closer will always be rewarding!