About
A slow-growing evergreen shrub, up to around 4m high, with pinnate leaves divided into 3-5 broadly ovate, leathery dark green leaflets, edged with spines, that are tinted purple in low temperatures. Small yellow flowers are borne in dense clusters in the leaf axils in spring, and are followed by waxy 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 sun, Partial shade, Full shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants, Coastal
Native toC. Mexico
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. Needs winter frost protection, best suited to southern counties and inner city locations or cold greenhouse. 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