5 Seeds Oregon Grapeholly Mahonia aquifolium Evergreen Shrub

Oregon Grapeholly is a sturdy evergreen shrub admired for its holly-like foliage that shifts through shades of bronze and green across the seasons. It forms a dense, upright mound that works well as a low hedge, foundation planting, or woodland accent, and it earns its place in the garden with clusters of bright yellow blooms followed by powdery blue-black berries that have long been used in jams and preserves. Easygoing and long-lived, it brings year-round structure to mixed borders and naturalized areas.
In the landscape, Oregon Grapeholly serves as a textured backdrop for perennials, a compact screening shrub, or a wildlife-friendly planting that attracts pollinators in spring. The tart berries can be gathered when fully ripe for jellies, syrups, and baked goods, while the leathery leaves hold their color through winter. It responds well to light pruning after flowering and slowly spreads by underground stems to fill in bare spots. Grow it where its multi-season interest can be appreciated up close.
Species: Mahonia aquifolium
Type: Evergreen shrub
Plant Habit: Upright, spreading by suckers
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, averages moisture
Zones: 5-9
Germination: Cold stratification recommended; sow 1/4 inch deep and keep moist
Spacing: 3-5 feet apart
Notes: Berries ripen in late summer; foliage may bronze in cold or sun