Oregon Grape, Holly-leaved Barberry, Tall Oregon Grape
Kingdom: Plantae; Division: Magnoliophyta; Class: Magnoliopsida; Order: Ranunculales; Family: Berberidaceae; Genus: Berberis; Species: Berberis aquifolium · Berberidaceae (Barberry family) · Pinnately compound, evergreen, consisting of 5-9 leaflets.
Species
Berberis aquifolium (formerly Mahonia aquifolium)
Leaf Type
Pinnately compound, evergreen, consisting of 5-9 leaflets.
Family
Berberidaceae (Barberry family)
Shape
Individual leaflets are ovate to elliptical, resembling holly leaves with multiple spiny lobes.
Size
Leaflets are 1-3 inches long; the entire compound leaf can reach 10-12 inches in length. This specimen appears mature and within typical size ranges.
Margin
Serrate-spiny; the edges are equipped with sharp, needle-like teeth characteristic of the species.
Arrangement
Opposite leaflets on a central rachis (the leaf itself), while the compound leaves are arranged alternately on the stem.
Rarity
Common; it is a very frequent sight in both wild Pacific Northwest landscapes and as a cultivated garden shrub.
Color & Pattern
Deep glossy green upper surface, often turning reddish-purple or bronze in winter. The central rachis (leaf stem) shows a distinctive reddish tint. The berries are dusty blue-black with a waxy bloom.
Venation Pattern
Pinnately veined, with the central midrib and secondary veins being somewhat recessed on the upper surface and prominent below.
Texture & Surface
Leathery (coriaceous), glossy, and glabrous (hairless). The surface has a waxy feel that helps the plant retain moisture.
Description
An upright, evergreen shrub reaching 3-6 feet. It features stiff, leathery leaves that resemble holly. In spring, it produces dense clusters of bright yellow, honey-scented flowers, followed by clusters of spherical, dark blue berries by late summer. The bark is thin and gray, but the inner wood is a vibrant, neon yellow.
Key Features
Pinnately compound leaves with spiny margins, reddish central leaf stalks, bright yellow inner bark/roots, and dusty blue clusters of 'grapes'.
Habitat
Found in Douglas-fir forests, brushy slopes, and rocky open areas. It thrives in well-drained soil with partial shade but is highly adaptable to full sun or deep shade.
Geographic Range
Native to western North America from Southeast Alaska to Northern California, and eastward to Idaho and Montana. Widely naturalized in Europe and elsewhere as an ornamental.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in Excellent health. The foliage is vibrant green without evidence of rust (Puccinia) or leaf spot, and the fruit development indicates a successful reproductive cycle.
Interesting Facts
It is the state flower of Oregon. The plant contains berberine, which gives the inner wood its yellow color. While called a 'grape' due to the fruit appearance, it is not related to true grapes (Vitis).
Medicinal & Uses
The roots and bark contain berberine, used traditionally as an antimicrobial and for digestive issues. The tart berries are edible and rich in Vitamin C, often used for jellies or wines. The inner bark produces a brilliant yellow dye.
Ecological Role
Provides critical winter cover for small birds and mammals. The flowers are an early nectar source for bees and butterflies, and the berries are a primary food source for birds like robins and towhees.
Similar Species
Berberis nervosa (Low Oregon Grape) which is shorter and has more leaflets (9-19); Ilex aquifolium (English Holly) which has simple, not compound leaves.
Foraging Tips
Identify in late summer when the blue berries are present. Look for the bright yellow inner wood if pruning. The berries are best harvested after the first frost to reduce bitterness.
Toxicity Warning
Mildly Toxic. While the berries are edible, the roots and bark contain high levels of alkaloids (berberine) which can cause stomach upset if consumed in large quantities. Non-toxic in typical food preparations.