Mahonia subimbricata
An evergreen shrub to around 1.5m high, with narrow pinnate leaves to 22cm long, divided into pairs of close-set or overlapping, narrowly ovate glossy leaflets with spiny toothed edges. New leaves are tinted red in spring. Clusters of small yellow flowers are borne in autumn, followed by black berries
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Red | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Yellow | Green | ||
| Winter | Green | Black |
Position
- Full shade
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical 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
- Plant range
- China (Yunnan, Guangxi)
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 by semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- 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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