Beale’s Barberry also known as Mahonia |
| The Mahonia is blooming, also known as chapparel and agrito. Its blooms are grape like clusters and they are fascinating. This plant can withstand hot and dry but does best with hot and wet! or at least moist. This is a hardy and beautiful plant. The richer and fuller the leaves, the better the care but it will hang on in the hottest of times.
The mahonia is related to the nandina. Read more here. |
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| Mahonia with Japanese Maple
Beale’s Barberry (Mahonia is closely related to the barberries, Berberis) or “Oregon grape” a vernacular name for the Mahonia aquifolium, which is native to the Pacific Northwest. |
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| Beale’s Barberry also known as Mahonia |
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| These berries begin appearing in March and become lusciously large by May. |
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| Texas Charming Architecture – Fatsia planted at entrance. Fatsia is a common companion plant for Mahonia. |
Q: Does Mahonia grow well in Texas?A: Yes, several species of Mahonia—particularly Mahonia aquifolium (Oregon grape) and Mahonia trifoliolata (Agarita)—grow well in Texas. Agarita is native to Central and West Texas, while Oregon grape does best in shadier, cooler parts of the state such as North and East Texas. Q: Is Mahonia drought-tolerant?A: Agarita (Mahonia trifoliolata) is very drought-tolerant and thrives in dry, rocky soils. Oregon grape is moderately drought-tolerant once established but prefers more moisture and some protection from direct, harsh sun in Texas summers. Q: Can Mahonia take full sun in Texas?A: Agarita can handle full sun, even in hot Texas summers, but performs best with some afternoon shade in Central and South Texas. Oregon grape prefers part shade and may suffer leaf scorch in full sun, especially in southern zones. Q: Is Mahonia evergreen in Texas?A: Yes, both Agarita and Oregon grape are evergreen in Texas. Their spiny, leathery foliage holds through winter and provides structure and wildlife cover year-round. Q: Does Mahonia attract wildlife?A: Yes. Mahonia offers:
Q: Is Mahonia deer-resistant?A: Yes, Mahonia is generally deer-resistant due to its tough, spiny leaves. However, young plants may still be nibbled, especially in drought conditions. Q: How big does Mahonia get in Texas landscapes?A: Agarita typically grows 4–6 feet tall and wide
Q: Can I grow Mahonia in containers in Texas?A: Smaller species like Mahonia repens can grow in containers with well-draining soil and partial shade. But in general, Mahonia prefers being planted directly in the ground where roots can spread. Q: Is Mahonia invasive in Texas?A: No, not in native or managed landscapes. Agarita is a Texas native. Oregon grape spreads slowly but is not considered invasive in most parts of the state. |
Mahonia with garden cherub in Fort Worth Botanical Garden |
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Mahonia surrounding garden cherub at Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. Mahonia is a cousin to Nandina and often planted with Fatsia.  Mahonia surrounding garden cherub at Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. Mahonia is a cousin to Nandina and often planted with Fatsia. |
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