Mahonia fremontii (Fremont Barberry)

Worth planting for its 4 seasons of interest, Mahonia fremontii (Fremont Barberry) is a rounded evergreen shrub with stiff, erect branches clothed with beautiful thick and rigid, spiny, holly-like leaves. Emerging burgundy, the leaves turn green and then blue-green to powder blue with age. In mid-spring to early summer, showy clusters of 8-12 honey-scented, brilliant yellow, cup-shaped flowers can be admired. They give way to dry, ovoid to spherical berries, initially green, maturing to purple. Edible, but extremely sour, the fruit was used as dye by Native Americans. Songbirds love the berries and the cover offered by its prickly leaves. Low maintenance, heat, and drought tolerant, this western native shrub is perfect for the waterwise garden.

• Grows up to 3-8 ft. tall and wide (90-240 cm).
• A full sun to light shade lover, this plant is easily grown in well-drained soils. Requires little or no water. Tolerates poor soils and hot, dry conditions. Drought tolerant once established.
• Can be used as a specimen, garden accent or in a mixed border.
• This plant is susceptible to diseases and so is considered undesirable in agricultural areas, where it can spread disease to crop plants. Monitor for pests, diseases, or other ailments on a regular basis
• Prune in early spring to maintain a desirable shape
• Propagate by seed, layers or cuttings.
• Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States: Utah, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.