Mahonia aquifolium

 

  Oregon Grape

  Family: Berberidaceae

  Origin: Northern California and the Northwest

Hardiness: Hardy to 0 degrees
Growth: Medium rate of growth to 3-6 feet
Form: Upright canes, open form; canes multiply and spread

 

  Leaves: Compound to 10" with spiny leaflets;
  red tints spring & fall

  Flowers: Bright yellow clusters in spring

Fruit: Dark blue, edible berries in fall
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Water: Deep water twice a month during the summer
Soil: Prefers well drained soil; likes moisture, tolerates dryness
Fertilizer: Not needed
Prune: Shorten canes to control height; remove old canes to ground
Problems: Barberry looper chews leaves - use Bt at first sign

Useful as a tall plant in narrow beds. Use dwarf forms as ground covers.

© 1997 by Jim Clatfelter         Go to Garden California Home Page

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