Mahonia eurybracteata 'NARIHIRA'

Threadleaf mahonia (Oregon grape) is a Chinese taxon formerly known as mahonia confusa. Perhaps only with it rising popularity thanks to newly invented varieties its name was changed to m.eurybracteata. The first successful varieties were Narihira, Soft Caress, and Sweet Winter.

Narihira is a Threadleaf mahonia variety which is possibly the first widespread variety of this unique mahonia species in the USA. It is a stunning architectural plant whose habit resembles that of a small palm tree which makes it popular in exotic-style landscapes. Its evergreen leaflets are 1-2 cm wide, soft to touch, dark green, partially glossy, gently serrated at margins, and form a compound pinnate frond. In autumn unroll 10-20 cm tall, upright racemes composed of small, bright yellow, slightly fragrant flowers. If pollinated, they are followed by purple blue, edible berries that taste like barberry berries.

It grows into a dense shrub about 1.5m tall and wide, offering a fluffy habit. It loves a bit of sun and midday shade, or partial shade all day long. Plants grown in full sun set more flowers but are prone to sunscorch in colder climates especially in late winter. Still, they regenerate readily after spring pruning. This mahonia will be a jewel among other large-leaved evergreens and a fine-textured understory of mid-sized trees providing filtered sunlight.

Threadleaf mahonia requires fertile soil of any pH (acidic, neutral, and alkaline). It likes constantly moist but well-drained soil. We experienced the best results with acidic soil where its foliage produced the richest colour. It does not like drought so keep it mulched all year long. Recommended hardiness is commonly -17 °C (USDA zone 7) but we continue with trials as we believe it will take a few degrees lower.

Last update 12-11-2021