Chinese hollygrape
Mahonia lomariifolia
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Pl. 28D1 — Mahonia lomariifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Chinese hollygrape, scientifically known as Mahonia lomariifolia, is a deciduous shrub native to the mountainous regions of China South-Central, Hainan, Myanmar, Taiwan, and Tibet. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. It can grow up to 5 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit, which makes it a valuable resource in certain areas. Its distinctive features include evergreen leaves that are finely divided, resembling those of larch trees, and clusters of yellow flowers followed by blue-black berries.
Quick answers
What is Chinese hollygrape?
Chinese hollygrape, scientifically known as Mahonia lomariifolia, is a deciduous shrub native to the mountainous regions of China South-Central, Hainan, Myanmar, Taiwan, and Tibet.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chinese hollygrape thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 8-9 and can reach a height of 5 meters. For propagation, use the fruit for planting. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-9
Mature size
5.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Chinese hollygrape for the first time
8steps
Start with Chinese hollygrape by ensuring you have the right conditions and care practices.
- 1
What you'll need
A young plant or seeds, a pot for transplanting if needed, and basic gardening tools like a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up, or in fall before the first frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) textures. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden if possible. If using seeds, sow them in pots first before transferring to the ground.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, and ensure consistent moisture. Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage a healthy shape. Harvest fruit when they are fully ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough drainage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Chinese hollygrape is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native· 1 introduced
Asia4 regions
native (3)ChinaMyanmarTaiwan
introduced (1)China
Broader regions
native:Hainan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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