Longleaf Mahonia Cascade Mahonia

Longleaf mahonia (Berberis nervosa, Berberidaceae) is a low-growing broadleaf evergreen native to western North America, typically staying under 2 feet tall though leaves can reach 7 feet on exceptional sites. Each compound leaf carries 9 to 21 strongly toothed, holly-like leaflets up to 3 inches long. Yellow flowers appear in spring, followed by dark edible berries. The plant spreads by underground rhizomes and is fire-adapted, resprouting readily after burns.

Longleaf mahonia grows in sun to shade across a range of soil types and moisture levels, from sea level to 1,800 meters elevation. It tolerates renovation pruning with up to 90 to 95 percent removal. Documented diseases include leaf spot, rust, leaf scorch, and powdery mildew; lecanium scale is the primary pest association. Its low, rhizomatous habit makes it useful as a groundcover in woodland and naturalized settings.