Mahonia shenii
An evergreen shrub to around 2m high, with a stiffly upright habit and pinnate leaves clustered at the ends of the branches. Leaves are divided into pairs of glossy green leaflets, each with one to three small teeth at the tips. Small, pale yellow flowers are borne in short clusters between spring and early autumn, and are followed by blue-black berries
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 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 | Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Yellow | Green | Black Blue | |
| Winter | Green | Black Blue |
Position
- Full shade
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical 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 humus-rich moist but well-drained soil, suited to full or partial shade in a sheltered position but tolerant of sun if soil is not too dry. 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
- Low Maintenance
- 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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