Berberis aquifolium
Also called:
Oregon Grape
Oregon Grape Holly
Tall Oregon Grape
Botanical Description
Plant Family:
Berberidaceae
Evergreen
Med - Lg Shrub (usually >3' and never < 1.5')
Oregon Native?
Yes
West State Native?
Yes
The genus Mahonia has now been included in the genus Berberis, hence the accepted name for Oregon Grape is Berberis aquifolium. However, in commercial horticulture these plants are still known as Mahonia. It is native to coniferous forests in Pacific Nor
Flower:
Yellow
Blooms from :
Apr
to:
May
Showy, fragrant bright yellow flowers bloom in terminal racemes
Foliage:
Dark Green
Leaves alternate, compound pinnate (7-9 leaflets), 15-30 cm long, extremely stiff and leathery, spine-tipped along margin which is wavy having distinct troughs between spines, lustrous dark green above.
Site Selection
Minimum USDA Hardiness Zone:
5
Water Needs:
M
Sun Needs:
Partial Sun
Deer Resistant?
Yes
Firewise?
Yes
Height:
3-10'
Spread:
2' to 5'
Growth Rate:
Medium
Native Habitat:
Deep, conifer forests; open, rocky woods
Soil Needs
Moist, organically rich, acidic, well drained
Fertilizer Needs:
Recommended Mulch:
Wildlife Uses
Attracts Pollinators?
Yes
Attracts Birds?
Yes
Supports Butterflies?
Yes
Wildlife use description:
Birds eat the berries