About
Mahonia haematocarpa is an upright, evergreen shrub with oval, prickly, grey-green foliage and clusters of bright-yellow, aromatic flowers in spring, followed by distinctive purple-red berries. A rewarding and ornamental mahonia for a sunny, well-drained garden.
About the genus
Mahonia are evergreen shrubs with bold, leathery, pinnate leaves, often with spine-toothed leaflets, and clustered racemes of small, sometimes fragrant, yellow flowers in late autumn to early spring, sometimes followed by black or purple berries. Popular garden shrubs for shade and structure.
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
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, 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 seed and semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free