Chinese mahonia - Berberis fortunei (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Chinese mahonia

Also known as: Holly grape

Chinese mahonia is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub that grows well in shady areas. With its holly-like leaves and mismatched tufts of yellow flowers, this plant can add interest to a garden or be grown indoors as a houseplant.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese mahonia (Berberis fortunei)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Fall, Winter

Bloom Time

Yellow

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Chinese mahonia

Culture

Garden Use

When planted at garden edges, the evergreen shrub chinese mahonia creates an effective security or privacy screen. Or, you can plant single bushes in small gardens where the flowers will attract butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and songbirds. In addition, the compact nature and multiple stems of this plant make it suitable for establishing in front of taller trees.

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Toxicity

All parts of chinese mahonia are toxic to humans, cats, and dogs due to berberine. The roots, stems, and inner bark have the highest concentrations; the fruit has the lowest. Symptoms include vomiting, low blood pressure, and lethargy. Consumption by pets can cause serious health issues. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for suspected chinese mahonia poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Chinese mahonia

Dense, rounded shrub reaching 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters) in height and width.

Small, glossy leaves with cascading growth pattern, maintaining foliage to the base.

Bright yellow flowers in racemes, blooming from late summer to fall.

Narrow leaves measuring 4-7 inches (10-18 cm) with spiny margins.

Non-showy green leaves contributing to an evergreen appearance.

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Care Guide for Chinese mahonia

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from variable moisture regions, chinese mahonia is moderately drought-tolerant and should be watered every 2-3 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly between sessions. Its evergreen, waxy foliage retains moisture, making it suitable for diverse outdoor environments.

Fertilize: For optimal health, chinese mahonia requires balanced nutrition fertilizers with equal NPK ratios. Use slow-release formulas in early spring and fall, with monthly liquid feeding during the growing season. Water before fertilizing to aid absorption and reduce the risk of root burn, adjusting frequency seasonally.

Pruning: The plant chinese mahonia features evergreen leaves and yellow flowers, thriving with late spring pruning. Key practices include removing dead branches for air circulation and maintaining shape while avoiding excessive cuts, which can affect flowering. Pruning after blooming promotes denser foliage and reduces pests, enhancing overall health.

Propagation: Chinese mahonia prefers well-drained soil and sunlight. To propagate, cut a 4-6 inch stem with leaves, apply rooting hormone, and plant in moist mix. Maintain humidity and warmth, mist regularly. Roots form in weeks; then, transition to direct light for planting in a permanent spot.

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Images of Chinese mahonia

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Chinese mahonia

Care Guide for Chinese mahonia

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