Also known as Beale's Barberry · Oregon Grape
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Leatherleaf mahonia (Mahonia bealei) is a striking evergreen shrub with holly-like leaves and bright yellow flower clusters, followed by blue-black berries. It offers yea
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled shade or partial shade. Can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but may scorch in hot afternoon sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment and dry periods. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 7-9. Prefers cooler temperatures but tolerates heat if provided adequate moisture.
Low
25% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains alkaloids, particularly berbine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and respiratory depression if ingested by pets or humans. The berries are mildly toxic.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Leatherleaf mahonia prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate some dryness once established. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Prune leatherleaf mahonia after flowering in late spring or early summer to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Major pruning can be done to rejuvenate older plants by cutting them back hard in late winter before new growth begins.
Leatherleaf mahonia can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer, or by seed sown in autumn. Seed propagation can be slow and may require stratification.
Cuttings are generally more reliable for achieving desired characteristics.
Young plants may need repotting every 2-3 years into a slightly larger container. Use a well-draining potting mix. Established plants in the ground rarely require repotting. Repot in spring before new growth emerges.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Leatherleaf Mahonia (Mahonia bealei)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Mahonia |
| Species | Mahonia bealei |
Similar in genus Mahonia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
