About
An evergreen shrub to around 1.2m tall with glossy green, spiny pinnate leaves that emerge coppery-red when young. Yellow autumn flowers borne in upright racemes emerge from red buds and are followed by dark blue fruits in winter.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
ToxicityBerries are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained or moist but well-drained soil in partial or deeper shade. It will tolerate a sunny position if the soil is not too dry. See mahonia cultivation
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust and powdery mildews