Berberis aquifolium, Mahonia aquifolium, Tall Oregon Grape, Pacific Northwest Native Plants, Oregon Native Shrubs, Sparrowhawk Native Plants, Portland
Berberis aquifolium, Mahonia aquifolium, Tall Oregon Grape, Pacific Northwest Native Plants, Oregon Native Shrubs, Sparrowhawk Native Plants, Portland
Berberis aquifolium, Mahonia aquifolium, Tall Oregon Grape, Pacific Northwest Native Plants, Oregon Native Shrubs, Sparrowhawk Native Plants, Portland

Tall Oregon Grape

Mahonia aquifolium / Berberis aquifolium

  • Size at maturity: 5-8' tall, 2-8' wide
  • Canopy layer: large shrub
  • Light requirements: full sun, part sun / part shade
  • Moisture requirements: dry to moist soil
  • Growth rate: medium
  • Special features: evergreen, medicinal, supports hummingbirds, wildlife favorite

The stiff, evergreen leaves of the Tall Oregon Grape look somewhat like holly leaves, with sharp prickly scalloped edges. The form of this plant can be either compact and dense in full sun, or more open in the shade. Bright, fragrant yellow clusters of small flowers appear from March to June. The edible, but tart, dusty blue berries hang look like clusters of miniature grapes. (Portland Plant List, 2016)

Photo Credits: Tara Lemezis

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