About
This large species can reach up to 4m high with large, dark green leathery leaves to 75cm long, yellow-green beneath, with 8-13 pairs of leaflets on pale, corky stems. Early autumn it produces racemes to 25cm long of bright yellow flowers followed by purplish-black fruits.
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 shade, Partial shade, Full sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityBerries are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in humus-rich moist but well-drained soil, suited to full or partial shade in a sheltered position but tolerant of sun if soil is not too dry. See mahonia cultivation for further information
PruningPrune every other year to encourage bushy growth - pruning group 8.
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in June and July.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free