Leatherleaf mahonia (Berberis bealei)

Leatherleaf mahonia

Leatherleaf mahonia is planted as a hedge. Its evergreen leaves, edged with spines, can deter outsiders from intruding. In addition to its very distinctive foliage, it is also very recognizable by the large bunches of dark purple fruits it produces in summer. Birds eat these fruits and help spread the seeds, so this plant is widely dispersed and even considered aggressive.

Scientific classification

Species

Leatherleaf mahonia (Berberis bealei)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Winter, Late summer

Harvest Time

50 cm to 4 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 2.5 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Bronze

Leaf Color

8 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

Green, Black, Purple, Blue

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Silver, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Leatherleaf mahonia

Distribution of Leatherleaf mahonia

Distribution Map

Leatherleaf mahonia originates from Central and Southern China, where it's an ornamental plant. Its distribution is confined to neighboring regions such as Japan and Vietnam. Leatherleaf mahonia's natural habitat is situated in partial shade in low-lying woodland.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Bottomland forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Leatherleaf mahonia is an evergreen shrub commonly grown in colder climates. Its dense growth and spiny leaves make it perfect as a hedge, border, or screen plant in cottage and woodland gardens. Leatherleaf mahonia should be grown in groups to best facilitate the growth of its pretty fruits. Japanese sedge, Persian violet, or witch hazel are all great companion plants.

Symbolism

Sourness of Temper. Sharpness

Name Story

Leatherleaf mahonia: It is an evergreen shrub featured with pinnate compound leaves. It is pretty similar to Majonia japonica, so it is commonly called leatherleaf mahonia.

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Toxicity

Leatherleaf mahonia is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingesting any part—leaves, stems, or berries—can lead to poisoning. Symptoms often include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and physical discomfort. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if ingestion is suspected.

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Quickly Identify Leatherleaf mahonia

Odd-pinnately compound leaves with stiff, spiny-toothed leaflets, terminal leaflet larger.

Distinctive tiered growth with cane-like stems, sparse branching, reaching up to 10 feet (3 meters).

Aromatic yellow flowers in late winter, followed by grape-like clusters of blue-black berries.

Roundish, stout stems with a gray-brown hue, branching pattern from base, sturdy appearance.

Lemon yellow flowers in dense terminal racemes, each flower 0.4 inches (1 cm) wide.

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Care Guide for Leatherleaf mahonia

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Leatherleaf mahonia prefers moist, well-drained conditions similar to its woodland habitat and tolerates brief dry spells. Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks, avoiding waterlogging. As an evergreen, its waxy leaves help retain moisture, decreasing watering frequency in cooler seasons.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and blooms, fertilize leatherleaf mahonia with a balanced, slow-release formula in spring, followed by a high-nitrogen mix in midsummer. Use sparingly to avoid root burn, with lower doses in cooler months. Ensure moist, mulched soil for effective nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Leatherleaf mahonia can benefit from pruning to enhance vigor, especially when used as a hedge. Prune in spring, removing no more than 1/3 of the canopy, and ensure cuts are angled. Always disinfect tools and wear gloves to prevent cross-contamination and protect tender tissues.

Propagation: Leatherleaf mahonia propagates effectively through cuttings in spring and summer. This method is moderately challenging, with new foliage indicating success. To enhance propagation, ensure consistent humidity and warmth for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot leatherleaf mahonia every 2-3 years in late winter/early spring to support its growth. Use a larger container for root space. After repotting, protect leatherleaf mahonia from direct sunlight and water moderately to maintain stable moisture for recovery.

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Images of Leatherleaf mahonia

Distribution of Leatherleaf mahonia

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Leatherleaf mahonia

Care Guide for Leatherleaf mahonia

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