Mahonia – Mahonia species

Two species of Mahonia are commonly grown in our area – the native, Mahonia aquifolium and the non-native Mahonia bealei.  Both have yellow flowers that open early in the season and although they prefer a moist, acidic soil, both will thrive in less-than-ideal situations and are fairly drought tolerant too.  They’re also rarely eaten by deer.  There are slight differences between the two species, as highlighted below:

Oregon Grapeholly –  Mahonia aquifolium

• Native evergreen shrub 3 – 6’.
• 1 star nectar, 2 star pollen source for honey bees; bumble bees also visit.
• Fragrant yellow flowers in March, blue fruit in summer.
• Good for shady areas; moist, well-drained, acid soil.
• Is prone to severe winter wind damage, so site in a protective area.

Leatherleaf Mahonia – Mahonia bealei

• Taller, 6 – 12’.
• Leaves more leathery, so less winter wind damage.
• Flowers earlier – Jan/Feb, so even more crucial for early season nectar.
• The flowers slowly open from the base outward, all throughout the winter when we get those warm spells.