About
This compact, evergreen shrub with glossy dark green foliage, flushed with purple in winter. Large, dense clusters of bright, golden yellow aromatic flowers appear in spring, followed by blue-black berries.
About the genus
Mahonia are evergreen shrubs with leathery, pinnate leaves which are often spine-toothed, and clustered racemes of sometimes fragrant yellow flowers, sometimes followed by black or purple berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, City and courtyard gardens
FragranceFlower
ToxicityBerries are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationTolerates a very wide range of growing conditions but does best in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in semi-shade. See mahonia cultivation
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust and powdery mildews