Mexican Barberry
Mahonia gracilis
Family: Berberidaceae
What it is like
Mahonia gracilis is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from February to March. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 1.5
Where it is found
Dry ravines in open pine forests in limestone soils.
South-western N. America - Mexico.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
The fruit of all members of the genus is edible either raw or cooked, though we do not know the quality of this species. The ovoid fruit is produced in racemes and is up to 12mm long.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Unlike most members of this genus, this species requires a dry, well-drained soil in a shady position. It requires a position sheltered from strong or cold winds. Plants are only hardy in the milder areas of the country, tolerating temperatures down to about -5°c when fully dormant. The young growth in spring can be damaged by late frosts. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus. Plants in this genus are resistant to honey fungus.
Propagating it: Seed -
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist