Mahonia breviracema

A compact evergreen shrub to around 1.2m high, with pinnate leaves to 16cm long, divided into pairs of spiny, leathery dark green leaflets. Small yellow flowers, with outer petals flushed with mauve, are borne in upright to spreading clusters to 7cm long in late autumn
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green | |||
Autumn | Yellow Purple | Green | ||
Winter | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- 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
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in partial or deep shade; will tolerate a sunny position if the soil is not too dry. Needs winter protection in colder areas, best for southern counties and inner city locations. See mahonia cultivation for further information
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 8
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to rust diseases
Get involved
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