About
A compact evergreen shrub to around 1.2m high, with pinnate leaves to 16cm long, divided into pairs of spiny, leathery dark green leaflets. Small yellow flowers, with outer petals flushed with mauve, are borne in upright to spreading clusters to 7cm long in late autumn.
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
Soil typeChalk, Sand, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, 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 any moist but well-drained soil in partial or deep shade; will tolerate a sunny position if the soil is not too dry. Needs winter protection in colder areas, best for southern counties and inner city locations. See mahonia cultivation for further information
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to rust diseases