Dwarf Oregon-Grape

(Mahonia nervosa)

Dwarf Oregon-Grape (Mahonia nervosa)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Mahonia nervosa, commonly known as Dwarf Oregon-Grape, is an evergreen subshrub native to the understory of coniferous forests in the Pacific Northwest, specifically the Northwestern USA and Southwestern Canada. It typically grows to a height of 2 feet (61 cm) with a similar spread, featuring pinnate leaves that resemble those of holly, with a leathery texture and a glossy surface. The leaves can reach up to 18 inches (45 cm) in length, and the plant rarely exceeds 3 feet (0.9 m) in height. The bright yellow flowers, which bloom from early to late spring, are showy and form erect clusters up to 8 inches (20 cm) long. These are followed by edible, dark-blue berries that are about 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) in diameter and have a tart flavor.

Dwarf Oregon-Grape is valued for its year-round interest, with its holly-like foliage, yellow spring flowers, and blue berries that attract birds. It is used in shaded garden areas, as ground cover, or in naturalized woodland settings. This plant prefers partial to full shade, requires low to moderate watering, and thrives in well-drained, acidic soils. It is relatively low-maintenance but can suffer from rust and leaf spot diseases. While it is not aggressive, it can spread via rhizomes to form colonies.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 3-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Understory of coniferous forests in the Pacific Northwest, with a maximum height of 3 feet (0.9 m), preference for partial to full shade, and well-drained, acidic soils

Other Names

Common Names: Cascade Barberry, Cascade Oregon-Grape, Dull Oregon-Grape, Cascade Mahonia, Dwarf Oregon Grape

Scientific Names: , Mahonia nervosa, Berberis nervosa, Berberis nervosa var. mendocinensis, Mahonia glumacea, Berberis glumacea, Berberis nervosa subsp. mendocinensis, Berberis nervosa var. nervosa, Mahonia nervosa var. mendocinensis, Mahonia nervosa var. nervosa

GBIF Accepted Name: Mahonia nervosa (Pursh) Nutt.