BERBERIS, in botany, a genus of the hexandria monogynia class. The calix consists of six leaves or pieces; the petals are six, with two glands at the ungues; it has no stylus; and the berry contains two seeds. There are two species, viz. the vulgaris, or barberry or piperidge-bush, a native of Britain; and the cretica, a native of Candia. The inner bark, which is bitter, is said to be of use in the jaundice. The berries, which are gratefully acid, have been given with success in bilious fluxes, and diseases proceeding from heat, acrimony, or thinness of the juices.