Genus guide
Mahonia — 6 species
Mahonia is an architectural evergreen shrub delivering four-season interest: fragrant yellow flower clusters in late winter, blue-black berries in summer, and bold spiny foliage year-round. Varieties range from the compact ground-cover 'Apollo' to the tall, statuesque 'Charity' and the fine-textured 'Soft Caress'. It tolerates partial to full shade and is drought-tolerant once established, needing supplemental water only during prolonged dry spells. According to ASPCA, all Mahonia species are non-toxic to cats and dogs.
All Mahonia species we cover
- Mahonia aquifolium Apollo
- Mahonia Charity
- Mahonia Pinnacle
- Mahonia repens
- Mahonia Soft Caress
- Mahonia Winter Sun
Mahonia — frequently asked questions
Are Mahonia plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Mahonia are pet-safe. Of the 6 Mahonia species we cover, 6 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 0 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Mahonia plants need?
Most Mahonia do best in medium indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Mahonia easy to care for?
Many Mahonia are beginner-friendly — they tolerate lower light and forgiving watering. Water to how fast the pot actually dries rather than a fixed calendar and most will thrive.
How many Mahonia varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 6 Mahonia species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Mahonia, the rest follow closely.
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