Also known as Chinese Mahonia · Fortune Mahonia
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Berberis fortunei is a dense, evergreen shrub with thorny branches and toothed leaves, producing yellow flowers followed by dark blue-black berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and foliage color, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter.
Well-drained, loamy
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Hardy in most temperate climates. Protect from extreme winter winds.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Not a heavy feeder.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Berries are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Berberis fortunei regularly, especially during dry periods and the first year after planting. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot.
Prune Berberis fortunei to maintain its shape and size, or to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
For hard pruning, do it in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Propagate Berberis fortunei by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in mid-summer. Root the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix in a propagator or warm location.
Seed propagation is also possible but may result in plants that differ from the parent.
Repot Berberis fortunei when it becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years for container-grown plants. Use a good quality, well-draining potting compost.
Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a sheltered spot for a few weeks.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Berberis Fortunei (Berberis fortunei)
Where Berberis Fortunei (Berberis fortunei) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Berberis |
| Species | Berberis fortunei |
Similar in genus Berberis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
