Oregon Grape Holly Shrub

Oregon grape holly (Mahonia aquifolium) is an evergreen shrub with stiff, holly-like leaflets and bright yellow spring flower clusters. Blue-black berries follow in summer, while the leathery foliage can turn bronze or red-purple in winter. ## Form and seasonal interest Oregon State University describes the species as an upright, sometimes leggy shrub generally 3–10 feet tall; some forms are lower and broader. Its pinnate leaves have seven to nine glossy, dark green leaflets with spine-tipped edges. Terminal clusters of yellow flowers appear in early spring, followed by powdery blue-black berries. The Royal Horticultural Society also describes low-spreading growth and winter-purple foliage. Common names include Oregon grape, tall Oregon grape, mountain grape, and holly-leaved barberry. Kew treats Mahonia aquifolium as a synonym of Berberis aquifolium, while Oregon State notes that Mahonia remains common in commercial horticulture. ## Site Grow in partial or full shade in moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Protect the foliage from drying winds and avoid hot, dry sites. Its shade tolerance and broadening habit make it useful as an evergreen ground cover beneath trees or as a woodland-border shrub. The RHS describes the berries as ornamental and advises against eating them. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and prolonged dry weather, keeping the root zone evenly moist but not waterlogged. Remove damaged stems as needed; prune after flowering if size or shape needs control. Wear gloves when handling the spiny foliage.