Mahonia aquifolium aka Oregon Grape
Taxonomy
Mahonia aquifolium, also known as Oregon grape or holly-leaved barberry, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Berberidaceae and is native to western North America. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide, with pinnate leaves consisting of spiny leaflets, and it produces dense clusters of yellow flowers in early spring, followed by dark bluish-black berries. Some aboriginal peoples of the Pacific Northwest include the berries in their diet, and the species is recognized as the state flower of Oregon. Oregon grape is also a rare houseplant that is not challenging to grow and needs regular watering and abundant sunlight, preferably less than 3 feet from a window. The plant prefers well-draining soil and doesn't typically need added fertilizers if you repot it each time it doubles in size. Oregon grape belongs to the Mahonia genus and is native to Southwest Canada to Northern California.
Common names
Oregon GrapeHow to care for Oregon Grape
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Oregon Grape is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Oregon Grape should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Oregon Grape loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Oregon Grape plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Fertilizer
The Oregon Grape is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.
Region of origin
Oregon Grape’s native range is Western N. America. Naturalized in Britain.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Mahonia Genus

Mahonia dictyota Shining Netvein Barberry

Mahonia gracilipes

Mahonia aquifolium Oregon Grape

Mahonia repens Creeping Barberry

Mahonia fortunei Chinese Mahonia

Mahonia napaulensis

Mahonia bealei Beale's Barberry

Mahonia pinnata Wavyleaf Barberry

Mahonia nervosa Cascade Barberry
