Plant types

Plant styles

Planting conditions

Seasonal interest

Nurseries & Gardens

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Mahonia gracilis

Also Known As

Berberis gracilis
Mexican Barberry

Plant type

shrub

size

H: 5'-10'
W: 4'-8'

planting zones

7b-11

Mahonia gracilis plant details

Mahonia gracilis is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with green foliage. In fall and winter yellow flowers emerge followed by blue fruit. Features glossy texture. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with bright shade - shade and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in average, clay and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Mahonia gracilis

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: berberidaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 4 FT - 8 FT - wide, 5 FT - 10 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in fall and winter
Uses: easy-to-grow, winter interest, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Mahonia gracilis

USDA Zones: 7b - 11
Sun exposure: bright shade - shade
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer, heat
Soil needs: average, clay and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A graceful mahonia that doesn't look like your average mahonia and can take full sun as well as part shade and even survives harsh, dry conditions! An evergreen shrub, to 6-8 ft tall nearly as wide, with red stems bearing smooth, soft leaves that emerge glossy green, lighter in sun and darker in shade. Long, lax spikes of yellow flowers appear in late autumn and winter. This handsome, Mexican native is best in well-drained soil, in half sun to part shade with at least occasional summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.