Oregon Grape, also known as Oregon Grapeholly, Mahonia, or Tall Oregon Grape
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Ranunculales, Family: Berberidaceae, Genus: Mahonia, Species: M. aquifolium · Berberidaceae (Barberry family) · Pinnately compound evergreen leaf with typically 5 to 9 leaflets
Species
Mahonia aquifolium
Leaf Type
Pinnately compound evergreen leaf with typically 5 to 9 leaflets
Family
Berberidaceae (Barberry family)
Shape
Ovidal to elliptical leaflets with spiny-toothed margins, closely resembling holly leaves
Size
Each leaflet is approximately 2 to 3 inches long and 1 to 1.5 inches wide. The entire compound leaf measures around 6 to 12 inches, typical for this species
Margin
Spinose-serrate (spiny-toothed with prominent prickles along the edge)
Arrangement
Alternate, pinnately compound leaves along the stem
Rarity
Common throughout its native range and widely cultivated as an ornamental shrub in gardens
Color & Pattern
Deep dark green upper surface with a slight glossy sheen, paler matte green on the underside. Stems and petioles show reddish-purple tinting. Winter color often shifts to a bronze or purplish hue
Venation Pattern
Palmate-pinnate reticulate venation with prominent veins radiating from the base and forming a noticeable net-like pattern across the blade
Texture & Surface
Leathery (coriaceous), stiff, and glabrous (smooth) with a somewhat glossy adaxial surface
Description
Oregon Grape is an upright evergreen shrub native to the Pacific Northwest. It features striking leathery, holly-like leaves, clusters of bright yellow, fragrant flowers in spring, and edible dark blue berries that resemble tiny grapes in summer. The foliage provides year-round visual interest with its changing seasonal colors from green to bronze-purple
Key Features
Pinnately compound evergreen leaves with spiny, holly-like leaflets, distinct yellow inner bark under the outer layer, bright yellow spring flowers, and blue-grape-like clusters of berries
Habitat
Understory of coniferous forests, wooded slopes, and ravines. Prefers well-drained acidic soils, part shade to full sun, and moderate moisture
Geographic Range
Native to western North America, stretching from British Columbia south to Northern California, and east to Idaho and Nevada
Condition Notes
The pressed and dried specimen is in good overall condition, showing typical preservation of the leathery texture and spiny margins with minor darkening due to drying
Interesting Facts
Oregon Grape is the state flower of Oregon. Despite its common name, it is not a true grape but belongs to the barberry family. The yellow inner bark and roots have historically been used to produce a yellow dye
Medicinal & Uses
The tart berries are edible and commonly used to make jellies, jams, and wine, usually combined with sweeter fruits. The roots and bark contain berberine, which has been used in traditional herbal medicine for digestive and antimicrobial properties
Ecological Role
Provides crucial food and habitat for native birds, pollinators, and small mammals. The flowers offer an early nectar source for bees and other insects, while birds consume the berries and help disperse seeds
Similar Species
Creeping Mahonia (Mahonia repens), which is shorter, has fewer leaflets (typically 3-7), and duller leaf surfaces compared to the glossy, taller Oregon Grape
Foraging Tips
Look for glossy, spiny compound leaves in the understory of western coniferous forests. Spring reveals bright yellow flower clusters, while summer yields clusters of dusty blue berries. Wear gloves when harvesting due to the sharp leaf spines
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. The berries are edible (though tart), and the plant has a long history of safe culinary and medicinal use, though excessive ingestion of concentrated root extracts should be avoided