Mahonia

Mahonia are evergreen shrubs which are grown for their foliage. They have yellow, cup-shaped flowers which are beautifully fragranced and spiny-margined leaves. Leaves are grey-green in colour but can be a purple-red when young. Flowers are followed by decorative, purple-black fruits. Low growing species can be used as ground cover to minimise weeding. Taller shrubs are perfect for use in a shrub border. Mahonia require moderately fertile soil in full or partial shade. They also require shelter from cold winter winds. Mahonia do not require regular pruning but should be dead-headed after flowering.