Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Mahonia eurybracteata subsp. ganpinensis 'Soft Caress'
Soft Caress Mahonia
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Bright yellow
- Foliage color
- Soft, glossy green with a feathery, finely textured appearance
- Bloom time
- Autumn to early winter
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; prune after blooming to remove spent flowers and shape if necessary
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and birds (attracted to the berries)
About this plant
Mahonia eurybracteata subsp. ganpinensis 'Soft Caress' is an evergreen shrub known for its soft, fern-like foliage that creates a graceful, textured appearance in the garden. In autumn to early winter, it produces clusters of small, fragrant yellow flowers, which contrast beautifully with the dark green leaves. These flowers are followed by blue-black berries, adding seasonal interest to the plant.
Originating from a selection of Mahonia eurybracteata native to China, 'Soft Caress' was developed for its compact form and unique, soft-to-the-touch leaves, which set it apart from other Mahonias. Its adaptability to shaded environments and relatively low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for woodland gardens, as well as for adding texture and color to more formal landscapes.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Borders · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Fatsia · Skimmia · Tiarella · Camellia · Trillium · Lily-of-the-valley
Design tip
Use ‘Soft Caress’ to introduce fine texture into a shade planting dominated by broad-leaved shrubs and perennials. Its fern-like foliage creates an effective contrast with larger, heavier leaves, while repeating several plants can establish a soft, cohesive layer through the planting.
