European Barberry is a species of barberry plant known for its tart, red berries and sharp thorns. This plant is also known by a number of other common names, such as Common Barberry and Berberis Vulgaris. The plant is native to Europe, but has since been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Asia. The word barberry is derived from the Arabic words 'berberis abar' which means 'shining of shining' due to its bright berries. Other synonyms for the European Barberry include Russian barberry, Jaundice berry and Sour-spine. Despite its sour taste, it has been used for medicinal purposes, including to treat jaundice and diarrhea.