Oregon Grape
Mahonia aquifolium
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Oregon Grape is a hardy evergreen shrub native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. It plays a vital role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a ground cover and erosion control plant. It thrives in a variety of soil types and conditions, making it a resilient choice for diverse ecosystems. In a food forest, Oregon Grape serves as an understory shrub, providing habitat and food for wildlife. Its bright yellow flowers are an early nectar source for pollinators, while the dark blue berries, though tart, contribute to biodiversity and can be used in jams and jellies. Historically, indigenous peoples have used Oregon Grape for both food and medicine, valuing its roots for their antimicrobial properties.
Growing Details
Oregon Grape prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It grows best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include nitrogen-fixing species like clover and pollinator-friendly plants like lavender. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils, to prevent root rot. Harvest berries in
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Mahonia aquifolium</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Pacific Northwest of North Amer
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of Jun for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The berries of Oregon Grape are edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and wines. They are tart and often mixed with sweeter fruits to improve palatability. The berries are typically harvested in late summer and can be stored by freezing or drying for later use.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Oregon Grape root is highly valued in herbal medicine for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains berberine, which is used to treat infections, digestive issues, and skin conditions. The root can be prepared as a tincture or tea for liver support and immune system enhancement. Caution is advised due to the potential toxicity of berberine in high doses, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
health concerns: The plant contains berberine, which can be toxic in high doses. It is advised to use with caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using medicinally, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
other uses: The plant can be used as a natural dye, producing a yellow color from the roots and a purple color from the berries.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Mahonia aquifolium</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Mahonia aquifolium
common names: Oregon Grape; Holly-leaved Barberry; Mountain
family: Berberidaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Mahonia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 1.0 m
spacing: 1.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / -10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: Medium
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
(4/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 30 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 2.0 m
max width: 1.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Oregon Grape prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It grows best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include nitrogen-fixing species like clover and pollinator-friendly plants like lavender. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils, to prevent root rot. Harvest berries in
Potential Disturbances: Oregon Grape is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by aphids and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Companion planting with garlic or chives can help repel pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray for scale insects. Ensure good air circulation and proper spacing to prevent fungal diseases.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...