Oregon grape
mahonia aquifolium
Also known as: ["Holly-leaved barberry","Oregon grape-holly"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to western North America, known for its holly-like leaves, yellow flowers, and blue-purple berries.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Berberidales |
| Family: | Berberidaceae |
| Genus: | Mahonia |
| Botanical Name: | Mahonia aquifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded border, or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light). Adjust for hotter climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; in containers, move to shadier spots during peak heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid hot afternoon sun; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, acidic to neutral soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid waterlogged soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; tolerates cold down to -20°F (-29°C); prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from extreme cold; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilizing; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is mature but not woody.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage bushier growth. Focus on structural improvement and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary for container-grown plants to prevent rootbound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then stop to prevent waterlogging. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold without protection.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become brittle or drop; growth slows or halts; frost can damage new growth if unprotected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect in containers by moving to sheltered spots; avoid wet soil in freezing conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Mahonia aquifolium may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats if ingested. The plant is not considered highly toxic to cats, but ingestion can lead to mild digestive disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Mahonia aquifolium can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. While not highly toxic, consumption may lead to mild discomfort and digestive issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Mahonia aquifolium contain alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but consumption may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oregon grape edible?
A: The berries are edible but tart and are often used for jams and jellies.
Q: Does Mahonia aquifolium attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.
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 growi |
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