How to Grow Mahonia Japonica - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Mahonia japonica is an ornamental plant that is native to China and Japan. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves and produces clusters of small, yellow flowers in the spring. The flowers give way to small, black berries in the summer. Mahonia japonica is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping because of its low maintenance requirements and its ability to thrive in shady areas.

How to Grow Mahonia Japonica - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • mahonias
  • Oregon grape
  • barberry
  • holly
  • mountain mahonia

Things to Know

  • Mahonia japonica, also known as the Japanese mahonia, is a flowering plant in the family Berberidaceae.
  • It is native to eastern Asia, specifically China, Japan, and Korea.
  • The plant grows to a height of 2-5 m (6-14 ft) and has a spread of 1-2 m (3-6 ft).
  • It has pinnate leaves with 9-19 leaflets and yellow, fragrant flowers which appear in autumn.
  • The fruit is a dark blue berry which ripens in late autumn or early winter.
  • The plant is cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate regions and is also used in traditional medicine.
  • The root of the plant is used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as colds, diarrhea, and urinary problems.
  • The berries of the plant are edible and can be used in pies, jams, and other desserts.
  • The plant is also used as an ornamental shrub in gardens and parks.
  • The plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests such as powdery mildew and aphids.

Related plant:
Mahonia Bealei

Growing Steps

  1. For mahonia japonica, first step is to plant the seeds.
  2. Mahonia japonica prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
  3. Sow the mahonia japonica seeds in late winter or early spring.
  4. Cover the mahonia japonica seeds with a thin layer of soil.
  5. Keep the mahonia japonica seedlings moist but not wet.
  6. Fertilize the mahonia japonica seedlings when they are about 6 inches tall.
  7. Mahonia japonica is a slow-growing plant, so be patient.
  8. When the mahonia japonica seedlings are about 2 feet tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
  9. Water the mahonia japonica plants regularly.
  10. Mahonia japonica blooms in late spring or early summer. The flowers are followed by blue-black fruit.

Related plant:
Mahonia Soft Caress

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, Mahonia japonica grows well in various types of soils such as loam, sand, and clay. However, it prefers well-drained, moist, and slightly acidic soils. It also tolerates drought and salt well. This plant can also grow in full sun or partial shade.

Light requirement

Like the other members of the Mahonia family, the Japanese Mahonia (Mahonia japonica) requires full sun to partial shade to thrive. It's a fast-growing evergreen that can reach up to 10 feet tall, so it's perfect for creating a privacy screen or hedgerow. This tough plant is tolerant of a wide range of conditions, from hot, humid summers to cold, snowy winters.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the growth of the mahonia japonica is a temperature that is between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. ThisTemperature range is best for the growth of the mahonia japonica because it allows the plant to have the optimal amount of sunlight and it also does not get too hot for the plant. The mahonia japonica is a plant that does not like to be in direct sunlight for too long because it can cause the plant to dry out. The mahonia japonica is also a plant that does not like to be in too much heat because it can cause the plant to wilt.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50% or lower. The plant does not like to be in overly moist or waterlogged soils, and will start to show leaf drop if the humidity is too high. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to curl and brown.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this family of plant prefers lower doses of nitrogen and higher doses of phosphorus, which helps to attain proper growth and fruit/flower production. The root systems are deep and wide-spreading, so they are not easily uprooted, making them a good choice for erosion control on slopes.

Light requirement

Pruning the Mahonia Japonica Mahonia japonica is a beautiful, evergreen shrub that is often used as a focal point in gardens. It can grow to be quite large, so regular pruning is necessary to keep it looking its best. Pruning also encourages new growth, which keeps the plant healthy. The best time to prune Mahonia japonica is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Start by removing any dead or diseased branches. Then, cut back any overgrown or leggy branches to encourage new growth. Finally, shape the plant by trimming back any branches that are growing out of place. Pruning Mahonia japonica is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. With regular pruning, this plant will continue to thrive and look great in your garden for many years to come.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of Mahonia japonica is typically done through rooting stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from new growth that is still soft and pliable. The cutting should be at least 6 inches long and have at least 2-3 leaves. Cuttings should be taken from the side of the plant rather than the top. Once the cutting has been taken, it should be placed in a container of moistened potting mix. The container should be placed in a shady location until new growth appears, at which point it can be moved to a sunny location.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is seen in young plants. After the first year, the growth rate diminishes significantly. In general, mature plants grow at a much slower rate, only adding a few inches per year. The optimum growth rate is achieved when the plant is between 3 and 10 years old. Fertilization will also help to encourage growth.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant plants include dieback, leaf spots, and root rot. Dieback is typically caused by incorrect watering, while leaf spots and root rot are usually caused by too much water. Mahonia japonica plants are also susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

List to Know

  • Make sure to plant your mahonia japonica in well-drained soil.
  • Choose a spot in your garden that receives full sun to partial shade.
  • Space your plants at least 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation.
  • Water your mahonia japonica deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
  • Fertilize your plants annually with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune your plants annually to remove any dead or damaged branches.
  • Be on the lookout for common pests and diseases such as aphids, scale, and powdery mildew.
  • Harvest the berries when they are ripe and use them fresh or in recipes.
  • Store excess berries in the freezer for future use.
  • Enjoy your beautiful mahonia japonica plants for many years to come!

Alternative Plants

  • Mahonia aquifolium
  • Mahonia bealei
  • Mahonia beaufortiae
  • Mahonia conferta
  • Mahonia eurybracteata
  • Mahonia fortunei
  • Mahonia gracilipes
  • Mahonia japonica var. okamotoi
  • Mahonia lomariifolia
  • Mahonia media

Source:
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Mahonia japonica
Mahonia japonica | Landscape Plant Propagation Information
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Mahonia japonica 'Hivernant'

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category