Mahonia gracilipes
Mahonia gracilipesfam. Berberidaceae
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Pl. ECFE — Mahonia gracilipes
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IOverview
Overview
Mahonia gracilipes, a member of the Berberidaceae family, is native to China's south-central regions and thrives in partial sun to full shade with moist soil. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit. It prefers light, medium, or heavy soils and is hardy in zones 6-9. Its distinctive features include light green leaves and yellow flowers that give way to small, flavorful berries, making it a valuable addition to gardens seeking both ornamental appeal and culinary use.
Quick answers
What is Mahonia gracilipes?
Mahonia gracilipes, a member of the Berberidaceae family, is native to China's south-central regions and thrives in partial sun to full shade with moist soil. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mahonia gracilipes thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows to a height of 1.5 meters. For propagation, use division or seeds. The fruit is edible and can be harvested for consumption.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mahonia gracilipes for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in a partially shaded area, ensuring the soil is well-draining and moist.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plant, garden gloves, spade or trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive. Amend with compost if necessary.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from a nursery pot to your garden bed, ensuring the root ball is intact.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Mahonia gracilipes is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Berberidaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Berberidaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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