Mahonia – Oregon Grape 🌿💛
Mahonia is a bold, evergreen shrub prized for its spiky, holly-like foliage and fragrant yellow flower spikes that bloom in late autumn to early spring – just when the garden needs a lift! It’s an excellent structural plant that adds interest year-round and is a reliable nectar source for early pollinators.
Key Features:
✔ Striking deep green, leathery leaves with dramatic texture
✔ Produces clusters of bright yellow, scented flowers from November to March
✔ Followed by blue-black berries – loved by birds
✔ Great for shady areas, wildlife gardens, or mixed borders
✔ Fully evergreen and hardy
Care Instructions:
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Light: Thrives in partial to full shade, but tolerates sun if soil stays moist
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Watering: Water well during dry spells while young; mature plants are drought-tolerant
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Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil – adaptable to clay, loam or sandy types
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Feeding: Light mulch in spring can boost growth, but usually needs little feeding
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Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
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Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK
🌿 Tip: Use it as a backdrop shrub or hedging plant – its evergreen foliage and winter blooms provide structure and seasonal charm.
If you’re after something tough, architectural, and wildlife-friendly, Mahonia is a superb choice that shines in the coldest months. ❄️💫
