Species Oregon grape-holly
elongated clusters of small bright-yellow flowers, and green, obovate leaves

Oregon grape-holly

Mahonia japonica

Oregon grape-holly (Mahonia japonica) is a large evergreen shrub native to the woodlands of Japan. Growing up to 16 feet tall, it produces clusters of bright, vibrant yellow flowers in the spring, followed by blue-black berries. Its glossy, holly-like leaves are an attractive dark green, and are pinnately compound, with toothed edges. In autumn, its foliage changes to purple or burgundy. Perfect for foundation plantings, its versatile size and coloration makes it a great accent or specimen plant in any garden. Hardy from USDA Zones 5 to 9, it prefers moist, well-draining soils with partial shade or dappled sunlight.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Layering Propagation,Cutting,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Fruits:

Fruits Ready In Winter

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Oregon grape-holly (Mahonia japonica) should be watered sparingly. During the summer, water the plant once per week with 1-2 quarts of lukewarm water. During the winter, reduce watering to once every other week or less. Always check the soil moisture level before watering, as the plant should not be allowed to dry out completely. If the soil is still moist, there is no need to water.

sunlight

Oregon grape-holly (Mahonia japonica) prefers bright, indirect sunlight, so it should be placed near a south- or east-facing window or small, protected patio to get the ideal amount of sunlight. Although it can tolerate low, indirect light, it may become leggy if it does not receive enough light. Additionally, this species benefits from full, direct sunlight for 2 or more hours a day during the summer months. It is important to avoid exposing Oregon grape-holly to direct sunlight in the heat of the day, however, as this could lead to leaf scorching. If kept indoors and not exposed to enough sunlight, this species may become pale in color, so it is best to move it outdoors during the growing season.

pruning

Oregon grape-holly (Mahonia japonica) should be pruned in late winter/early spring, just before new growth begins. Generally, you should prune it just enough to keep the plant’s size under control and to maintain an attractive, healthy shape. Most deciduous varieties don’t need much pruning, but evergreen types should be pruned more heavily. It is best to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as soon as they are noticed. Depending on the size and form of the plant, you can thin out the interior growth to allow more light penetration and air circulation, and selectively remove any stems that cross or rub against each other.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Mahonia japonica fruits typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Mahonia japonica typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and April.

Starts Flowering

Mahonia japonica typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and April.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Mahonia japonica fruits typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map