Oregon grape
berberis aquifolium
Also known as: ["Mahonia aquifolium","Holly-leaved barberry"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to western North America, known for its holly-like leaves, yellow flowers, and blue-purple berries.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Berberidales |
| Family: | Berberidaceae |
| Genus: | Berberis |
| Botanical Name: | Berberis aquifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: border plantings, woodland edges, or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun with protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid hot afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from freezing; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop feeding in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C); indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for better success.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn purple or bronze; growth slows; buds may fail to open in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Berberis aquifolium may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats upon ingestion. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Berberis aquifolium can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The alkaloids present may lead to irritation of the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Berberis aquifolium contain alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oregon grape toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Does Oregon grape attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Can Oregon grape be grown in shade?
A: Yes, it is shade tolerant and thrives in partial to full shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Berberidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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