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Shrubs

Mahonia breviracema
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

A compact evergreen shrub to around 1.2m high, with pinnate leaves to 16cm long, divided into pairs of spiny, leathery dark green leaflets. Small yellow flowers, with outer petals flushed with mauve, are borne in upright to spreading clusters to 7cm long in late autumn

Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Sand
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Yellow Purple Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Berberidaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
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

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How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in partial or deep shade; will tolerate a sunny position if the soil is not too dry. Needs winter protection in colder areas, best for southern counties and inner city locations. See mahonia cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 8

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to rust diseases

Get involved

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