Oregon grape is either of three gold winter-blooming hollies.
Oregon grape holly key facts
Species name – Mahonia
Sub-sp. – aquifolium, repens, nervosa
Family – Berberidaceae (Barberry)
Type – flower & berry shrub
Soil – well draining, acidic
Exposure – full or part sun
Size: 4-6 feet (1½-2 m) – Bloom: late winter/early spring – Harvest: mid/late fall
Planting Oregon grape
Oregon grape, native of course to the West Coast of the United States, nonetheless grows very well in many settings, including coastal gardens.
Best habitat for Oregon grape – where to plant it
Oregon grape is a wonderful shrub to plant under or around taller conifer trees.
It loves the part shade that these trees share. It also prefers slightly acidic soil, not alkaline.
- However, it will also do very well in full sun.
- Full sun is where you’ll have the brightest blooms in winter.
Drainage
Drainage is important, but that doesn’t mean it must constantly be dry.
- If the soil in your area is constantly waterlogged, best plant Oregon grape atop a slight mound.
- Conifers also love well-draining soil. Wherever conifers thrive, your Oregon grape is sure to be happy.
How to plant Oregon grape
You can plant Oregon grape directly in the ground in any season, provided it neither freezes nor is there any heat wave.
- Best season is spring, for roots to settle in by fall. This ensures proper blooming even in the first year.
- Planting in fall is also excellent. Depending on how well the Oregon grape succeeds in surviving transplant shock, it will either bloom in the first or second year.
Follow these guidelines on how to plant shrubs.
Oregon grape care
This winter-blooming shrub loves acidic soil.
In landscaping, this makes it a perfect companion for plants like azalea, rhododendron, and lower-growing heathers.
Heath plants
Consider pairing your Oregon grape with other heath plants. These share the same needs and you’ll be able to treat them all with the same love.
- Heath plants love pine bark mulch.
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