Mahonia sheridaniana
An evergreen shrub, to around 3m high though often smaller in cultivation, with pinnate leaves to 35cm long, divided into pairs of leathery green leaflets with spiny, wavy edges and pale undersides. Small yellow flowers, tinted slightly pink in bud, are borne in dense clusters in spring, and are followed by blue-black berries
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Blue Black | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical 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
- Plant range
- China
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained soil in partial or deep shade; will tolerate a sunny position if the soil is not too dry. Mahonia don’t respond well to nitrogen rich fertilisers but do appreciate an annual mulch with well-rotted manure or garden compost in autumn. Water in very dry periods – water well if needed but not often
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 8
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to rust diseases
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