Mahonia

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Mahonia Golden Abundance 038

Fruits of Mahonia lomariifolia, Luther Burbank Home and Gardens

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Mahonia oiwakensis

Mahonia aquifolium3

Mahonia Lescenaultii

Mahonia is a genus of shrubs and small trees in the Berberidaceae family, native to eastern Asia, the Himalayas, North America, and Central America. It is closely related to the genus Berberis and botanically similar enough that some species have been transferred between the two genera. Mahonia plants are known for their compound, evergreen leaves, yellow flowers, and blue to black berries. The berries are often edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and wines. The genus is named after Bernard McMahon, an early American horticulturist.

Description

Mahonia plants vary in size from small shrubs less than 1 meter tall to larger trees up to 4.5 meters tall. The leaves are pinnate with 3 to 10 pairs of leaflets, each leaflet being spiny-toothed, resembling those of the holly – hence the common name "Oregon grape" for some species. The flowers, which appear in late winter or early spring, are borne in dense, yellow racemes and are followed by spherical to elongated berries. The fruit is often a deep, bluish-black and covered with a waxy coating.

Cultivation and Uses

Mahonia is popular in horticulture as an ornamental plant. Its resistance to shade, drought, and pests makes it a versatile choice for gardeners. The plants are also valued for their winter flowering period, which adds color to gardens during the colder months. In addition to their ornamental value, some species of Mahonia are used in traditional medicine for their antibacterial properties and to treat various ailments. The berries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making them beneficial for culinary uses.

Species

There are several species within the Mahonia genus, including:

• Mahonia aquifolium (Oregon grape)
• Mahonia nervosa (Cascade or longleaf mahonia)
• Mahonia repens (Creeping mahonia or creeping Oregon grape)
• Mahonia japonica (Japanese mahonia)

Taxonomy

The taxonomy of Mahonia has been a subject of debate, with some botanists proposing to merge it into the genus Berberis because of genetic similarities. However, traditional morphological characteristics and some molecular data support maintaining a separate genus. This debate is ongoing in the botanical community.

Conservation

While many Mahonia species are common and widely cultivated, some are rare and face threats from habitat loss and overcollection. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of these species in their natural habitats.

Gallery

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See Also

• Berberidaceae
• Berberis
• Ornamental plant
• Traditional medicine