Mahonia aquifolium aka Oregon Grape
Taxonomy ID: 11772
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 GrapeMore information about Oregon Grape
How difficult is it to take care of Oregon Grape
With its straightforward care requirements, Oregon Grape is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
What is the region of origin of Oregon Grape
Oregon Grape’s native range is Western N. America. Naturalized in Britain.
What are the water needs for Oregon Grape
Oregon Grape should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Oregon Grape
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.
How to fertilize Oregon Grape
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.
Is Oregon Grape toxic to humans/pets?
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.
What seasonal care does Oregon Grape need?
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.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Mahonia Genus
Mahonia fortunei Chinese Mahonia
Mahonia japonica
Mahonia nervosa Cascade Barberry
Mahonia gracilis
Mahonia pinnata Wavyleaf Barberry
Mahonia repens Creeping Barberry
Mahonia aquifolium Oregon Grape
Mahonia dictyota Shining Netvein Barberry
Mahonia bealei Beale's Barberry