Mahonia japonica - 7.5Litre

Mahonias are fantastically tolerant plants, happily filling almost any space in the garden.

Long sprays of attractive yellow buds are followed by bright yellow flowers throughout autumn and winter, providing valuable colour and nectar at a time when very little else is in flower. These are followed by glossy black berries, adding further interest and appeal.

Mahonia's common name is Oregon Grape. This is because not only are the flowers edible (although I wouldn't bother, they're not the best bit), the black berries, which are funnily enough rather grape-shaped, can be made into a surprisingly good jam.

I certainly wouldn't recommend eating them raw though. They are extremely sharp and really need plenty of sugar and cooking before they become enjoyable!

Leaf colour: Green

Type: Evergreen

Aspect: Partial shade or full shade

Soil type: Sand, clay, chalk or loam

Pot size: 7.5 litre

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