shrub RHS AwardN. America Native

Oregon Grapeholly

Mahonia aquifolium

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Western North America

Toxicity

Berries edible, but seeds and roots are mildly toxic.

The Story

Plant Bio

Mahonia aquifolium is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with spiny, holly-like leaves and a suckering habit that allows it to form colonies. This species offers exceptional four-season interest, with fragrant yellow spring flowers, edible blue-black summer berries, and evergreen foliage that turns a handsome purplish-bronze in winter.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Valued for its dramatic, architectural foliage that provides year-round structure. Its bright yellow spring flowers, clusters of waxy blue berries, and bronze-purple winter color make it a standout in all four seasons.

The spiny leaves make it an excellent choice for a low, informal barrier or security hedge to deter foot traffic. Its dense, suckering habit is also useful for stabilizing soil on slopes.

The early spring flowers provide a crucial nectar source for bees and other pollinators. The berries are a valuable food source for birds like robins and towhees, and the dense foliage offers cover for wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with well-drained, acidic soil and partial shade.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Amend heavy clay soils with compost to improve drainage.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Provide afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch and maintain the best foliage color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system.
Prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape.
Allow it to naturalize in woodland settings.
Protect from harsh winter winds in colder zones.

Don't

Do not plant in waterlogged or alkaline soils.
Avoid planting in full, hot sun which can scorch the leaves.
Don't over-fertilize; a yearly compost application is usually sufficient.
Avoid deep cultivation around the shallow roots.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural woodland garden accentEffective barrier or security hedgeNaturalistic foundation planting

Companion Plants

Ferns Hosta Rhododendron Helleborus Gaultheria procumbens

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Oregon Grapeholly questions

What zones can Oregon Grapeholly grow in?

Oregon Grapeholly is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Oregon Grapeholly deer resistant?

Yes — Oregon Grapeholly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Oregon Grapeholly bloom?

Oregon Grapeholly typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Oregon Grapeholly need full sun?

Oregon Grapeholly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Oregon Grapeholly drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Oregon Grapeholly handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.