How to Grow and Care for Leatherleaf mahonia

Leatherleaf mahonia, also known as Beale's Barberry, Leatherleaf Barberry, Holly Grape, Holly-leaved Berberis, Beale's Mahonia

Leatherleaf mahonia is known for its adaptability and low-maintenance requirements. It thrives in partial to full shade and requires well-drained soil, with occasional watering to maintain moderate moisture levels. A special care point for leatherleaf mahonia is to avoid over-watering, as it can tolerate some drought, and excessive moisture may lead to root rot. Pruning is minimal, mainly to shape the plant or remove any damaged foliage.

Watering schedule: Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

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Planting and Growing Leatherleaf mahonia

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 1-2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Partial sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	6.0-7.5
Planting Time	Spring, Fall
Hardiness Zones	8-9

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More General Info About Leatherleaf mahonia

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Leatherleaf mahonia is a robust, multi-stemmed, evergreen shrub that can achieve heights of up to 10 feet (3 meters). It has a distinctive tiered growth with cane-like stems and sparse branching. Its odd-pinnately compound leaves are rigid, accompanied by sessile, spiky leaflets— the terminal leaflet notably larger than the others. During the late winter, leatherleaf mahonia displays conspicuous, aromatic yellow flowers, which give way to clusters of grape-like fruit in the late summer. Its drought and moderate salt tolerance are noteworthy, though it exhibits invasive tendencies in certain regions.