Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Mahonia x media 'Charity'
Charity Oregon Grape
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Height
- 4 to 15 feet
- Width
- 4 to 12 feet
- Flower color
- Bright yellow
- Foliage color
- Evergreen with thick, leathery, deep green leaves
- Bloom time
- Late fall to early spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Average water needs
- Maintenance
- Low; deer resistant and requires minimal pruning
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds (notably during its winter bloom period)
About this plant
Mahonia x media 'Charity' is an evergreen shrub admired for its bold architectural presence and bright yellow flowers. The long, upright racemes of fragrant blooms appear from late autumn through winter, adding a burst of color to gardens during the colder months. These flowers are followed by small, blue-black berries, which attract birds and provide additional seasonal interest.
Originating from horticultural efforts to combine the best traits of its parent species, 'Charity' is known for its hardiness and adaptability. Its dramatic, pinnate foliage with spiny leaflets lends year-round texture and visual appeal to gardens.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Deer Prone Areas · Hummingbird Gardens · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Juniper · Beautyberry · Larkspur · Pincushion flower · Wallflower · Grape hyacinth
Design tip
Use ‘Charity’ as an architectural anchor where its bold evergreen foliage can provide height and structure. Position it where the upright yellow flower clusters can be seen from frequently used winter spaces, and surround it with lower-growing plants to emphasize its vertical form.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
