Deerfield Nature Trail Stop 11: Japanese Barberry

Japanese barberry is a problematic invasive species.

NPS Photo/Alicia Lafever

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Japanese barberry are an invasive plant species in Catoctin Mountain Park. The throny shrub spreads easily with the help of humans from being carried along shoes.  It was first introduced in the 1860s/1870s as an ornamental shrub and escaped to the wild where it tolerates shade, severe drought, and extreme winters. Barberry also is prime habitat for ticks which are vectors for lyme disease.