Oregon Grape Tree

Mahonia aquifolium (syn. Berberis aquifolium)

Other names: Oregon grape, Oregon grape holly

Oregon grape is an evergreen, holly-leaf shrub with scented yellow winter flowers and blue berries for jam and syrup. In Perth it’s happiest in cool, dappled shade. Tough once established, but needs summer mulch and water to stop leaf scorch. Fruit is tart fresh, best cooked with sugar.

Features

• Ideal prune height: 1–1.8 m
• pH range: 5.5–7.0 (tolerates to 7.5 with compost)
• Sun preference: Morning sun or bright shade; protect from hot afternoon sun
• Minimum pot size by year 5: 40–50 L
• Time to fruit: 3–4 years from planting
• Harvest period: Late spring to early summer
• Notable traits: Evergreen, bee friendly, edible berries for preserves, low chill, shade tolerant

Plant in compost-rich, well-drained soil. Mulch 7–10 cm to keep roots cool. Deep water in summer; reduce in winter. Prune after fruiting to shape and remove scorch. One plant will fruit, but two or more improve set. Keep off reflected heat and harsh wind.

Why buy it
Great for shady Perth spots where fruiting shrubs struggle. Year-round foliage, winter flowers for bees, and a reliable tart berry crop for the kitchen.

Keywords: Mahonia aquifolium, Oregon grape, shade fruit shrub Perth, edible hedge, low chill berry, evergreen shrub, part shade garden, jam and jelly berries.