Oregon Grape Holly (Mahonia) (Mahonia aquifolium)

Summary:

Foliage: Evergreen broadleaf

Height: 3 to 9 feet (depending on form) Spread: 5 feet

Shape: Upright, cane growth (very little side branching)

Oregon grape holly is a slow-growing, medium to large evergreen shrub with lustrous foliage and bright yellow flowers in spring which are followed by robin egg blue fruit in summer.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 6 to 8

Light: Partial shade to full shade Moisture: Moist to average

Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay pH Range: 3.5 to 7.0

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include border, massing, and foundation plant.

Planting Notes:

Oregon grape holly must have shade during hot summer afternoons and protection from winter winds. Thus, planting on the east side of a house (within shade pattern) is ideal.

Care:

Easy to maintain.

Problems:

No serious pests.

Alternatives:

Consult local garden centers, including historic or public gardens and arboreta regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars:

‘Compactum’ is a low-growing cultivar (3 feet tall) with glossy foliage. Related species:

Leatherleaf mahonia (Mahonia bealei) has the same aesthetic and cultural requirements as Oregongrapeholly. However, it has a more coarse texture due to its larger and stiff-pointed leaves. There are reports of leatherleaf mahonia invading southern woodlands.

Comments:

There are two forms of Oregongrapeholly in the nursery trade. One is a tall upright open form and the other is a more compact low-growing form. In both species (Oregongrapeholly and Leatherleaf), leaves are held stiffly horizontal on the shrub, making it an interesting specimen. Because of this tiered effect that mimics a pagoda, these species are commonly used in Asian gardens.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation.