About
Mahonia japonica, the Japanese mahonia, is an erect, evergreen shrub to 2 m with large, dark-green, leathery, pinnate leaves to 45 cm with up to 19 sharp-toothed, slender leaflets. Small, scented, pale-yellow flowers in spreading or drooping sprays to 25 cm long are produced from late autumn to early spring, followed by blue-black berries. A superb structural shrub for winter interest.
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 shade, Partial shade, Full sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Wildlife gardens, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toTaiwan
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