A Tough, Ornamental Evergreen

Mahonia aquifolium is a glossy evergreen shrub native to the Pacific Northwest. It features pinnate leaves on long, irregular stems. The individual leaves are leathery, spiny, and resemble holly. The shrub is somewhat coarse in habit, but is still an interesting and ornamental addition to a cold hardy tropical garden. It will eventually reach 8 feet in height, and will spread out via suckers to reach 3-5 feet in diameter.

It is known as the Oregon Grape Holly due to the bluish-black berries it forms from late summer through autumn, which resemble grapes.

Mahonia aquifolium is hardy to Zone 5, and tolerates a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers rich organic soil but is very adaptable. It can grow in full sun to full shade, in well-drained soil or clay, and tolerates seasonal flooding.