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Mahonia

Mahonia aquifolium

shrub

Mahonia aquifolium, or Oregon Grape, is an evergreen shrub featuring pinnate, holly-like glossy foliage that turns bronze-purple in cool weather. It produces fragrant clusters of bright yellow flowers in spring followed by blue-black berries prized by birds. This shade-tolerant shrub is excellent for woodland gardens and provides year-round structural interest.

Mahonia

Common Problems

Select the problem your Mahonia is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Slow Growthchevron_right
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Yellow Leaveschevron_right
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Brown Spotschevron_right

Care Guide

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Light
Partial shade to full shade. Tolerates deep shade; colors less vibrant in shade but still attractive.
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Water
Moderate watering during growing season. Reduce in winter. Once established, fairly drought-tolerant.
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Soil
Well-drained, slightly acidic soil preferred. Tolerates poor soils. Avoid heavy clay without amendment.
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Fertiliser
Light feeding in spring. Mulch annually to improve soil over time.
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Temperature
Hardy shrub; some cultivars hardy to zone 5. Prefers cooler climates.
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Humidity
Moderate humidity. Performs well in woodland conditions.

Toxicity

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Non-toxic to humans and pets. Berries are edible and can be made into preserves; raw berries may cause stomach upset.

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.