Berberis × media ‘Red Jewel’ is a compact, spiny barberry grown primarily for its rich, shifting foliage colour. New leaves emerge in spring with bronze-red to reddish-purple tones, gradually deepening into darker purple shades as the season progresses, with colour intensity strongest in good light. In late spring, small pale yellow flowers appear along the stems, adding subtle contrast before the foliage becomes the main feature. Naturally dense and bushy, this variety provides strong structure and colour for borders and informal hedging, combining ornamental appeal with a tough, low-maintenance character.