Scientific name: Mahonia aquifolium
Family: BERBERIDACEAE
Common names: “Oregon grape” “Oregon grape holly”
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
Conditions:
Zone: 6-9
Light: Part sun – deep shade
Exposure: Sheltered
Soil: Fertile humus
Moisture: Well drained, even moisture in sun, can be drought tolerant but will be smaller, no wet feet
Aesthetic:
Plant Size: H 3′-10′ W 3′-5′
Leaf and Stem shape: Glossy deep green pinnate leaves becoming purplish in winter
Flower: Deep yellow flowers in large clusters, followed by dark blue berries
Pruning: Responds well to pruning
Maintenance: Low
Landscape use: Groundcover, hedges, native plant gardens
Propagate: Spreads by stolons, seed and semi-hardwood cuttings
Pests & Disease: Rust and anthracnose may be a problem
*Deer resistant ♥ Attracts hummingbirds
Comments: The berries are tasty, native to the Pacific Northwest down to California
Cultivars: M. nervosa – needs more moisture
M. aquifolium ‘Apollo’ ~AGM winner – more abundant flowers
Vancouver Island Grows 