[1][2] It ranges in size from 1–2 m, and is native to western China (Gansu, Sichuan, Yunnan).

[3] Berberis verruculosa is a shrub up to 100 cm tall, with yellow spines along the twigs.

Leaves are 1.5–2 cm long, hard, leathery, glossy dark green above, vivid white below with stomatal wax; in cold winter weather, the leaves may turn purplish-green above on exposed shoots.

The flowers are small, yellow, and mature into dark purple berries 6–10 mm long.

[3][4] Berberis verruculosa is cultivated in temperate climates as an ornamental plant, and grows well in any garden soil.