Mahonia Soft Caress

Named for its spine-free leaflets, Mahonia eurybracteata subsp ganpinensis Soft Caress is a medium-sized, evergreen shrub with an upright habit, more compact than other mahonias, and suitable for small gardens and container growing. Unlike the almost holly-like leaflets of other mahonias, the finely cut, long, narrow olive-green leaflets are not prickly, so Mahonia Soft Caress is a good choice for patios where where children play. In autumn abundant spires of citrus-yellow flowers, scented of honey, appear, and last into winter. These are followed by clusters of non-poisonous blue-black berries, which give rise to mahonias other common name, Oregon grape. Will tolerate full sun if the soil is reliably moist.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any humus-rich, well drained soil
Position: Prefers partial shade
Season of interest: All year, especially late summer and autumn
Hardiness: Reasonably hardy
Height: 4 (1.2m) Spread: 4 (1.2m)

Unlike its prickly cousins, this mahonia has soft feathery leaflets that flourish in shadier spots of the garden, with yellow flower spikes appearing in the fall and winter.