ShrubsMahonia aquifolium
Oregon Grape
Oregon Grape is an evergreen shrub with glossy, spiny foliage that can turn bronze-purple in winter. In March and April, dense clusters of fragrant, bright yellow flowers appear, attracting early bees. Later, blue-black berries follow that birds adore. A rewarding, shade-tolerant plant.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade, Full shade
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 100–200 cm
- Spread
- 100–150 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 5–8
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- yellow
- Wildlife value
- bees, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in partial shade or full shade in ordinary garden soil. Oregon Grape tolerates most soil types and handles dry shade reasonably well. Watering is rarely needed after the first year. The plant spreads slowly via underground runners.
Pruning tips
Prune right after flowering to control shape. Old, bare stems can be cut back to the ground — the plant will resprout. Wear gloves because of the spiny leaves.
Good companions
PerennialsHosta sieboldiana
Hosta
Hosta is the quintessential shade plant, valued for its large, blue-green, ribbed leaves. Light purple or white bell-shaped flowers appear on tall stems in July and August. Over the years the plant forms substantial clumps that give a shaded border a lush character.
FernsPolystichum setiferum
Soft Shield Fern
The soft shield fern is an elegant, evergreen fern with finely divided, soft green fronds that arch gracefully outwards. The plant forms a beautiful rosette and fits perfectly in shady borders and woodland gardens. Mature specimens can reach up to 120 centimetres across.
PerennialsHelleborus orientalis
Lenten Rose
The Lenten Rose is one of the first bloomers of the garden year, with saucer-shaped flowers in purple, pink or white appearing as early as February. The evergreen, palmate foliage forms attractive clumps that remain decorative year-round. The plant is a valuable early nectar source for bees.