[3] Berberis koreana is a deciduous shrub that is considered hardy which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 5 °F (−15 °C).

[2][4] The flowers of Berberis koreana are approximately 0.2 inches (5.1 mm) in length, appear in clusters, and are yellow in color when they bloom in the spring.

[2][5] However, eating high quantities of B. koreana berries can result in adverse side effects (see Intoxication section).

[6] However, roots of other Berberis species were used by American Indians and settlers to help with upset stomachs, hemorrhages, tuberculosis, and eye trouble.

[5][6] Recent studies found that compounds synthesized from the trunk of B. koreana showed cytotoxicity against human tumor cell lines and inhibited the growth of a skin melanoma.

Berberis can have adverse side effects such as severe digestive tract irritation that includes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.