A native of southern and central Japan, Crimson Pygmy dwarf Japanese barberry is suitable for U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 to 8 (SFgate)
A dwarf, densely branched form displaying deep crimson colored foliage all season long. Best color when planted in full sun. Excellent color contrast against green or gold-leaved plants. Excellent for mass plantings, particularly as a low hedge or border plant. Deciduous (Monrovia).
This versatile barberry works well as a hedge, border plant or rock garden plant. It is tolerant of periods of drought and heat, and has tough roots that transplant into new conditions well. The plant is easy to propagate by cuttings taken in the summer and rooted in moist soil. The shrub is rarely bothered by deer and can handle urban conditions such as air pollution (SFgate)