Mahonia / RHS Plant Guide

Mahonia

RHS Genus Guide

Mahonia are tough, spiny-leaved, evergreen shrubs that are versatile garden plants. Early into flower when not much else is flowering, some make good groundcover plants while others are imposing subjects for the back of a border or a woodland garden and they are excellent for shade planting.

Common name: Oregon grape

RHS / Mark Winwood

Appearance

With shiny leaves, these boldly upright or spreading shrubs have impressive clusters or spikes of fragrant, bright yellow flowers from winter to early spring, followed by juicy-looking purple to black berries in autumn.

Preferences

Moist soils that drain well are suitable, preferably in light or deep shade, though full sun is tolerated if the soil is not too dry.

Dislikes

Larger types dislike exposure to cold, drying winds, which can scorch the foliage.

Did you know?

Tall mahonias that become bare at the base are easily restored by cutting back the stems to about 30-60cm (1-2ft) from the ground in late winter to early spring.

RHS Growing Guide