Mahonia × media 'Marvel'
While some Mahonias can get too large for smaller spaces this cultivar is more compact and has less prickly leaves, the large frond-like leaves developing in whorls along branched stems. Large clusters of fragrant yellow flowers appear in late autumn/early winter, followed by dark blue-black berries by late summer
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Yellow | Green | Blue Black | |
| Winter | Yellow | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- 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
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained or moist but well-drained soil in partial or deeper shade. It will tolerate a sunny position if the soil is not too dry but is very suitable for difficult shady situations. Mahonia appreciate an annual mulch with well-rotted manure or garden compost in September which will help keep weeds down and keep the ground a little warmer in winter. Water in very dry periods – water well if needed but not often. See mahonia cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by layering or semi-ripe cuttings in June and July
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Wildlife gardens
- 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
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