Mahonia aquifolium 5gal Oregon Grape
Best native plant for low maintenance, year round garden interest.
Mahonia aquifolium, commonly known as Oregon Grape, is an evergreen shrub native to the Pacific Northwest. It features glossy, holly-like foliage that turns reddish-purple in winter. In spring, it produces yellow flower clusters that develop into blue berries in the fall, which are attractive to birds. This plant is a part of the Portland Plant List and is suitable for zones 5-8. It thrives in part to full sun and typically grows 3-5 feet tall and 2-5 feet wide.
$49.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1914
/ 3331
#1914 in Bushes & Shrubs
Price vs Category Average
+27%
Above average
Botanical Name
Mahonia aquifolium
/ Mahonia aquifolium
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking low-maintenance, year-round interest
- Nature enthusiasts wanting to support local ecosystems
- Homeowners desiring a dynamic, native landscape element
Who should skip it
- Families with young children or pets, or gardeners near high-traffic areas
- Gardeners with limited space or those preferring contained growth
- Consumers expecting sweet, ready-to-eat fruit from their garden
Performance breakdown
Wildlife Appeal
Spring blooms and fall berries create a magnet for local birds.
Seasonal Interest
Evergreen foliage shifts from glossy green to striking reddish-purple winter hues.
Regional Adaptability
Native status ensures it thrives effortlessly in Pacific Northwest garden conditions.
Maintenance Ease
Hardy evergreen structure requires minimal pruning to maintain its natural shape.
Landscape Versatility
Compact size fits perfectly into borders or as a foundation shrub.
Hardiness Range
Reliable performance across zones five through eight provides solid climate flexibility.
Key Specs
Botanical Name
Mahonia aquifolium
Common Name
Oregon Grape
Plant Type
Evergreen shrub
Foliage
Glossy green, holly-like, with reddish-purplish winter color
Flowers
Yellow clusters in spring
Fruit
Blue berries in fall
Attracts
Birds
Native
Pacific NW
Features
- Attractive year-round foliage with winter color
- Spring flowers and fall berries attract wildlife
- Native to the Pacific Northwest
- Suitable for Portland Plant List
- Evergreen for continuous greenery
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the robust health and vibrant appearance of the Oregon Grape upon arrival. Many highlight its exceptional quality, noting the plants are well established and ready to thrive in various garden settings. The ease of planting and subsequent vigorous growth are frequently mentioned, contributing to a highly satisfying gardening experience. Consumers feel this plant offers excellent value, appreciating its resilience and beauty as a long lasting addition to their landscapes. The consistent positive feedback underscores a strong sense of satisfaction with both the product and its performance.
Know before you buy
Since this shrub grows 2 to 5 feet wide, you should space them at least 3 to 4 feet apart if you want them to grow as individual specimens. If you are planting them as a hedge, spacing them 2 to 3 feet apart will allow the branches to eventually overlap for a fuller look.
It is quite versatile and thrives in both partial and full sun. In hotter climates, it appreciates some afternoon shade to prevent the foliage from scorching, while in cooler regions, it will perform best with more direct sunlight.
The berries are primarily attractive to local birds, which often helps support your garden's ecosystem. They do not typically attract nuisance pests or insects that would damage the rest of your landscape.
The Oregon Grape features glossy, holly-like green leaves that remain evergreen year-round. As temperatures drop in the winter, the foliage often develops a deep reddish-purple hue, providing excellent seasonal interest.
Yes, as a native Pacific Northwest shrub, it is well-adapted to the local climate and generally requires minimal intervention. Once it is established in your soil, it is quite hardy and drought-tolerant.
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