Oregon Grape Holly

Light Needs

Full Shade to Partial Shade

(0 - 4 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

5-6 Feet

Mature Spread

5-6 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

Oregon grape holly is one of those great native shrubs that is both evergreen and adaptable. The shiny, holly-shaped leaves turn shades of bronze and red in the cold of winter. Bright yellow flowers bloom early in the spring, attracting early local pollinators and hummingbirds. Deep purple berries appear later in the summer and attract songbirds and other small wildlife.

Mahonia aquifolia is durable and makes a perfect backdrop for lower-growing perennials and shrubs. Add Oregon grape holly to an informal native hedge, or use it to hide an unsightly fence or define a boundary line. Its foliage texture and color nicely contrasts other broadleaf evergreens and should be considered for a low-maintenance foundation planting. Deer do not give Mahonia a second glance, preferring to browse on plants with less prickly leaves. When Oregon grape holly is established, it is extremely drought tolerant and works well in water-wise planting designs. 

Oregon Grape Holly Care

Plant Oregon grape holly in a location with well-draining, acidic to neutral soil. Apply an annual mulch of organic material like compost or arborist chips to enrich the soil and retain moisture longer. Oregon grape holly struggles in locations with full sun and dry soil. Protection from the heat of the day and heavy winds is important in keeping the foliage glossy and colorful. A location in part sun to full shade in the garden is ideal.

Pruning is best done shortly after flowering in spring. Cut back any leggy growth from the previous growing season to encourage bushy and dense foliage growth. Pruning after flowering will cut back on the number of berries that are produced, so prune judiciously for shape. Heavy annual fertilizing is not needed and will encourage weak growth.

Oregon Grape Holly Spacing

Oregon grape holly will reach 5-6 feet tall and wide. Space multiple plants 6 feet apart from the center when planting in a mixed garden border. To construct a dense native hedge, space plants about 4-5 feet apart.