Berberis thunbergii 'Chocolate Summer'

Berberis thunbergii 'Chocolate Summer' is a compact, deciduous shrub with an upright habit and rich, dark purple-brown leaves on red-brown stems. Small yellow flowers appear in April and May and are popular with bees, followed by red berries that birds enjoy. In autumn the leaves turn shades of orange and purple before they fall.

It grows to around 1.2m tall and 60cm wide, so it fits well in smaller gardens, mixed borders and large pots, or can be planted in a row as a low, informal hedge. Grow in full sun for the deepest leaf colour, though it will cope with partial shade. It is happy in most well drained soils, is fully hardy and needs very little care. Note that the stems are spiny.

The dark foliage is a great backdrop for brighter plants, and it makes yellows, oranges and silvers really stand out. Its upright shape means it adds height without taking up much room, and with flowers, berries and autumn colour, it earns its place for most of the year.