Oregon Grape
Mahonia nervosafam. Berberidaceae
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Pl. BAB2 — Mahonia nervosa
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IOverview
Overview
Oregon Grape (Mahonia nervosa) is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and California, thriving in areas like British Columbia, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its ornamental value and culinary uses, this plant features clusters of small yellow flowers followed by blue berries that are edible. Its distinctive evergreen leaves, which have five to nine leaflets, add a unique touch to gardens. Oregon Grape can grow in various conditions, including full sun to partial shade, and prefers moist to dry environments with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil. Hardy from zones 5-9, it reaches heights of about 0.6 meters.
Quick answers
What is Oregon Grape?
Oregon Grape (Mahonia nervosa) is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and California, thriving in areas like British Columbia, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its ornamental value and culinary uses, this plant features clusters of small yellow flowers followed by blue berries that are edible.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stomach Comfort
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Oregon Grape thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that is light, medium, or heavy. It can tolerate drier conditions but performs best with consistent moisture. Hardy from zones 5-9, this plant grows up to 0.6 meters tall. Propagate via division or seed. Harvest the edible fruit and leaves for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Oregon Grape for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Oregon Grape in a sunny to partially shaded spot, and you'll have a low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Oregon Grape plants or seeds, potting mix if transplanting, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler and more stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; amend with compost for better fertility. Use a pot that's at least 30 cm wide if planting in containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from the nursery, or sow seeds directly where you want them to grow. Cover seeds lightly and keep moist.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly until plants are established. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Oregon Grape prefers partial shade, so consider its location carefully. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The Oregon Grape's fruit and leaves are edible. The small berries can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies. Young leaves can be added to salads for a tangy flavor. Skip the older leaves as they may be too bitter.
Other uses:DyeGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 5 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
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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
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