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Oregon Grape Flower Wikimedia Commons
Berberidaceae

Oregon Grape Flower

Mahonia aquifolium

Strength and perseverance.

Family
Berberidaceae
Genus
Mahonia
Native to
Western North America
Bloom season
Spring
Type
Evergreen Shrub
Height
3-6 feet
Sunlight
Partial Shade to Full Sun
Soil
Well-drained, Acidic
Water
Low to Moderate
Hardiness
5-9
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Oregon grape is the official state flower of Oregon despite not being a true grape.
  • The bright yellow inner bark contains berberine, a compound used in herbal medicine.
  • Its holly-like leaves turn bronze or reddish-purple in winter, adding year-round interest.
  • The blue-purple berries are edible and can be made into jelly, though they are quite tart.
  • Native Americans used the root bark as a yellow dye for baskets and clothing.

Color meanings

0

Resilience

1

Protection

2

Abundance

Uses

  • Native landscaping
  • Herbal medicine
  • Dye production
  • Edible berries
  • Wildlife habitat