ExplorePlants

Oregon grape

Berberis aquifolium

Oregon grape is a lovely shrub with shiny leaves and bright yellow flowers. It grows berries that are blue and can be used to make jelly! This plant is great for gardens and helps attract butterflies.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The Oregon grape is an evergreen shrub with shiny, leathery leaves that resemble holly, often turning reddish-bronze in winter. It has bright yellow flowers that grow in clusters in spring, followed by dark blue, powdery berries in late summer.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderRanunculalesFamilyBerberidaceaeGenusMahonia
Oregon grape
flowering trait badgeshrub trait badgeevergreen trait badgefragrant_flower trait badge
Oregon grape

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

Despite its name, Oregon grape isn't a true grape; it's related to barberry.

Indigenous peoples traditionally used its roots to create yellow dyes.

The plant's wood and roots have a surprising bright yellow color inside!

This plant can grow in sunny spots or deep shade, making it super adaptable!

Special abilities

Ability

Spiky Shield

Oregon grape has tough, spiky leaves that help protect it from hungry animals wanting to nibble.

Ability

Winter Glow

Its evergreen leaves can turn beautiful reddish-bronze colors in cold weather, helping it adapt to winter.

Ability

Berry Bonanza

It produces tart, dark blue berries that attract birds, who then help spread its seeds to new places.

Measurements & details

Height
60-300 cm
Spread
100-150 cm
Flower Size
0.5-1 cm
Bloom Season
Spring
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
Mild
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

MahoniaOregon grape holly

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Do not eat the berries without asking an adult, as they can be sour!

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Oregon grape?

60-300 cm

How wide does Oregon grape spread?

100-150 cm

How big are the flowers on Oregon grape?

0.5-1 cm

When does Oregon grape bloom?

Spring

Is Oregon grape edible?

Yes

Is Oregon grape toxic?

Mild

What is Oregon grape's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Oregon grape pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

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Recent Snaps

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Where to spot

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