I have so far stayed away from barberry just because of the thorns. But I can see where it would look good with the roses, so may have to reconsider that. I'll let dh prune them.
We have evergreen hucks everywhere. Literally. I didn't realize they weren't cold hardy. Too bad because they are great plants - growing in all kinds of shade, stay nice all year, have edible fruit, and are fabulous in cut flower arrangements.