Mahonia gracilis
This slow-growing, Mexican species is quite rare in the UK but if you can find it, it is definitely worth a spot in your garden. It does require a bit more shelter than some Mahonias and needs well drained soil but it will reward you with racemes of fragrant, yellow flowers from late autumn into winter and whorls of pinnate, glossy green leaves, held on bright red stalks
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Yellow | Green | Blue Black Purple | |
| Winter | Yellow | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy, Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- Berries are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Mahonia are evergreen shrubs with leathery, pinnate leaves which are often spine-toothed, and clustered racemes of sometimes fragrant yellow flowers, sometimes followed by black or purple berries
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich moist but well-drained soil, suited to full or partial shade in a sheltered position but tolerant of sun if soil is not too dry. See mahonia cultivation for further information
Propagation
Propagate by seed or semi-ripe cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Prune every other year to encourage bushy growth - pruning group 8.
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to rust diseases and Powdery mildews, especially in dry weather.
Get involved
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