About
Soft Caress' is an upright, evergreen, compact shrub, reaching a height and spread of 1.2m, and is characterised by its narrow, spine-free leaflets. Plentiful, fine-textured spires of yellow, honey-scented flowers are borne in late summer and autumn, 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
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
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
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free