About
An evergreen shrub to around 2m high, with pinnate leaves to 40cm long, divided into overlapping pairs of thin, curved, dull green leaflets, with tapered tips and finely edged with numerous tiny spines. Small yellow flowers are borne in upright to spreading clusters to 7cm long in late summer or early 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, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toS China
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
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