Mahonia

Q: When does mahonia flower?

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Q: Does mahonia grow in shade?

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Q: Is mahonia good for wildlife?

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Q: How do I prune mahonia?

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Mahonia earns its keep when the garden needs it most. Architectural evergreen leaves all year, then spikes of scented yellow flowers in the depths of winter, followed by berries the birds love.

4 products

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Winter-Flowering Mahonia 'Charity'

Mahonia x media 'Charity'

£19.99

1

Oregon Grape

Mahonia eurybracteata 'Volcano'

£34.99

1

Soft-leaved Mahonia (Oregon Grape)

Mahonia eurybracteata subsp. ganpinensis 'Meteor'

£34.99

1

Oregon Grape, Winter Sun

Mahonia x media Winter Sun

£16.99

1

Growing mahonia

Mahonia is one of the hardest-working shrubs you can plant. Bold, glossy evergreen foliage gives structure and an exotic, almost architectural look all year, then in the bleakest months it produces upright spikes of bright yellow flowers, many of them richly scented, when almost nothing else is out. Blue-black berries follow to feed the birds. Few plants do so much in the off-season.

It is also refreshingly easy. Mahonia is fully hardy and one of the best shrubs for shade, coping happily under trees and in north-facing beds where choice is limited, though it flowers well in sun too. It asks for little beyond the occasional prune to keep leggy specimens bushy. Plant one near a path or door where you will catch the winter scent as you pass.

All grown for UK gardens and sent out well rooted.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does mahonia flower?

In autumn and winter, depending on the variety, producing spikes of yellow flowers when little else is in bloom. Many are strongly scented, so it pays to plant them where you will pass close by.

Does mahonia grow in shade?

Yes, it is one of the best evergreen shrubs for shade. It copes well under trees and in north-facing borders, though it will also flower happily in sun. That versatility is a big part of its appeal.

Is mahonia good for wildlife?

Very. The winter flowers are a rare nectar source for any bees out on mild days, and the blue-black berries that follow are popular with birds. It is an easy way to support wildlife through the leaner months.

How do I prune mahonia?

Only as needed. If a plant gets leggy or bare at the base, cut the tallest stems back hard after flowering to encourage bushier growth. Otherwise it needs very little attention.