Mahonia eurybracteata is a plant that is native to China. It is a member of the family Berberidaceae, and is also known as the Chinese mahonia. The plant is an evergreen shrub that can grow to be up to six feet tall. The leaves of the plant are compound, and each leaf has up to 19 leaflets. The flowers of the plant are yellow, and they bloom from September to October. The fruit of the plant is a black drupe that is about half an inch in diameter.
Related plant:
Mahonia Bealei
Related plant:
Mahonia Aquifolium Apollo
About soil condition, the mahonia eurybracteata prefers humus-rich, moist but well-drained soils. It grows best in partial to full shade, in a sheltered spot. It will tolerate full sun, but the leaves may scorch if the soil is not moist enough.
Not too different with other Mahonia species, the Mahonia eurybracteata also requires full sun to partial shade for best growth. The sun light requirement is important in order for this plant to produce the beautiful yellow flowers that it is known for. Without the sun, the plant will not be able to produce the necessary amount of chlorophyll.
The temperature condition that is most ideal for the growth of the mahonia eurybracteata plant is a warm climate. This plant is native to regions in Asia that have warm weather all year round. Therefore, it is best to grow this plant in an area where the temperature will not drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature does drop below this, the plant may not be able to survive.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50% or below. The plant does not tolerate high humidity well and may start to experience leaf drop if the air is too moist. Yellowing leaves is another sign that the plant is not receiving enough humidity. If you notice either of these problems, try increasing the humidity around the plant by setting it on a tray of pebbles and water or using a humidifier.
Regarding fertilizer, this family of plant prefers organic options with a good amount of compost. You could also use a granular fertilizer, working it into the soil around the base of the plant. With regards to the roots, it's important not to disturb them too much as they are quite fragile.
Pruning is an important part of maintaining your mahonia eurybracteata. This plant responds well to pruning and can be pruned annually to keep it looking its best. When pruning, focus on removing any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant and control its size.
Propagation of Mahonia eurybracteata is best done through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be approximately 4-6 inches in length. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of the stems, as these will be the most succulent and easiest to root. Once the cuttings have been taken, they should be placed in a propagating tray or pot filled with a well-drained propagating mix. The tray or pot should then be placed in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Cuttings should be kept moist but not wet and should be monitored for signs of rooting. Once roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden.
Usually, the plant growth rate during the first two years is between 12 to 24 inches (30 to 61 cm). After the second year, the growth rate begins to slow down to about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) a year. This plant likes full sun to partial shade and moist to well-drained soil.
Common problems for this kind of plant are root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Root rot is caused by a fungi that attacks the roots and can cause the plant to collapse. Powdery mildew is a white, powdery fungus that can grow on the leaves and stems of the plant. Leaf spot is caused by a fungi that attacks the leaves and can cause them to turn brown and fall off.
Source:
Mahonia, Leatherleaf
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: MahoniaUC IPM - ucanr.edu
3. MAHONIA Nuttall, Gen. N. Amer. Pl. 1: 211. 1818, nom. cons.
