About
An evergreen shrub, to around 3m high though often smaller in cultivation, with pinnate leaves to 35cm long, divided into pairs of leathery green leaflets with spiny, wavy edges and pale undersides. Small yellow flowers, tinted slightly pink in bud, are borne in dense clusters in spring, and are 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 shade, Full 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
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toChina
ToxicityBerries are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in partial or deep shade; will tolerate a sunny position if the soil is not too dry. Mahonia don’t respond well to nitrogen rich fertilisers but do appreciate an annual mulch with well-rotted manure or garden compost in autumn. Water in very dry periods – water well if needed but not often
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