Mahonia oiwakensis, commonly known as Chinese Hollygrape, is an evergreen shrub native to the understory of montane forests and thickets in South-Central China, Myanmar, Taiwan, and Tibet. It can grow up to 23 feet (7 meters) tall, with a similar spread, and is characterized by its pinnate leaves with spiny leaflets, resembling those of holly. The foliage is a glossy, deep green that may take on purplish hues in winter. From late autumn to early spring, it produces racemes of fragrant, bright yellow flowers that are quite showy, followed by clusters of egg-shaped, dark blue to almost black berries, each up to 0.3 inches (8 mm) long.

Chinese Hollygrape is valued for its winter flowering period, offering color and interest during a time when few other plants are in bloom. It has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its excellence for garden use. This shrub is suitable for a variety of landscape applications, including urban gardens, woodland settings, and as a specimen or accent plant. It is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal pruning. For optimal growth, it prefers a location with full sun to part shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soil. While it is adaptable to different soil types, it thrives in slightly acidic conditions. Gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, and it can suffer from rust or leaf spot diseases under certain conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0