What kind of shrub do I have?

Question

I have a tall ( 5 ft) bush in front of my house that has purple leaves with some green spots. It's definately a perrinial. I live in zone 5. It's never flowered but I suspect that it can because there are little buds on it. I'd really like to know what it is so I can buy another and plant it on the other side of my garden. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer 1

A more concise botanical description would help. Leaves? spadate, spatulate, ovate, round, dentate, lanceolate, opposite, compound??? Leaves look like a star would even be helpful. There are many perennials that survive Zone 5.

What about taking cuttings and rooting them. Then you're assured of the exact same shrub. I'd be so bold as to try taking a 1' cutting of the terminal bud, strip lower brances and leaves, dip in Rootone, and plunk in a pot. Greenhouse not available = simulate it on a small scale. Clear plastic bags are handy. Got Duct Tape?

Lipstickit2me is Brilliant: Look like this? http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?_adv_prop=image&va=barberry+plant&sz=all&ei=UTF-8&ni=20&fr=ush-ans&b=41

Answer 2

One would really have to see pictures to know for sure, but if the plant has stiff branches with little thorns and the leaves are leathery and a very dark purple-red, then the plant is probably a Japanese Barberry. However, during the growing season the barberry's leaves are usually green, turning purple only when fall or cold weather starts approaching. I don't know if this coloration describes your plant. With the Japanese barberry, under the right conditions it will flower (very tiny, and non-showy) and also get red berries in the winter.

Answer 3

too many plants to even get an idea without a good picture.

take a pic (even with your camera phone) and bring in a leaf or better yet a smaller branch to your nearest garding store.

they have professionals who can help you find the plant and probably order it for you as well.