Differs from the type subspecies by the smaller flowers on shorter pedicels (4-8 mm long), petals 3 mm long, c. 2 mm broad, slightly shorter than the inner sepals. Spines 1-3(-5)-fid, 5-10(-20) mm long, sometimes absent.

Fl. Per.: April June.

Type: Kashmir, Falconer 95(K).

Distribution: Afghanistan, Pakistan and Kashmir.

Looks very similar to Berberis brandisiana Ahrendt, but ovary only 2-ovuled. A plant of dry open places and gregarious.