Mahonia 'Soft Caress'

Mahonia 'Soft Caress' is a compact evergreen shrub with fine, threadlike leaves that have no spines and bring a soft texture to shaded planting. Its bright yellow flowers rise above the foliage in early winter and are followed by blue berries; the [Southern Living Plant Collection's exact plant profile](https://southernlivingplants.com/the-collection/plant/soft-caress-mahonia/) gives its mature dimensions as 3 feet high by 3.5 feet wide and rates it for USDA zones 7a–9b. ## Features The narrow, feathery foliage gives this mahonia a distinctive texture in shade gardens. Its winter flowers provide color when many shrubs are not in bloom, and the following blue berries add another season of interest. The official profile notes that it attracts birds and butterflies. ## Siting and use Grow it in part shade to shade as an accent, specimen, or container shrub. It is evergreen and thornless, making it useful where the softer foliage can be enjoyed close up. ## Maintenance Water at planting and while establishing; the collection profile lists low water needs. Apply a shallow mulch around the root area, keeping it away from the stems. The grower recommends yearly spring fertilizing and spring pruning. The [plant patent record](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP20183P3/en) identifies the selection as 'Soft Caress' and records publication on July 28, 2009.