Mahonia eurybracteata subsp. ganpinensis 'Soft Caress'

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Key characteristics

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)

Shrubs

Mahonia eurybracteata subsp. ganpinensis 'Soft Caress'

Soft Caress Mahonia

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.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Autumn to early winter

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)