Mahonia japonica, commonly known as Japanese Mahonia, is an evergreen shrub native to the understory of mixed forests in Taiwan and other parts of East Asia. It typically grows to 2 m (7 ft) tall by 3 m (10 ft) wide. The plant features pinnate leaves that are glossy dark green on the upper surface and paler beneath, with sharply toothed margins. Its small, fragrant, yellow flowers bloom from late autumn through winter into spring, creating a long-lasting display. The inflorescences can exceed 25 cm in length, initially arching before becoming pendant. Following flowering, blue-black berries develop, which can be attractive to birds. Japanese Mahonia is valued for its bold evergreen foliage, winter flowers, and use as a groundcover or security hedge due to its spiny leaves, which deter intruders.

Japanese Mahonia is a versatile plant in the landscape, often used for ornamental purposes, in shaded borders, and as a security feature. It thrives in part shade to full shade, requiring low to medium amounts of water, and is adaptable to a range of soil drainage conditions, from slow to fast. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases. Gardeners should also be aware that the spines can make handling the plant difficult. Despite these issues, its ornamental appeal and utility in shaded garden areas make it a popular choice.CC BY-SA 4.0