Mahonia (Berberis) 'Golden Abundance'

Common Name:

Plant Type:
Evergreen shrub
Family:
Berberidaceae (The Barberry Family)
Geographic Origin:
California
California Native?:
Yes

Plant Size:
To 8 feet
Landscape/Garden Uses:
Mixed plantings
Flowering Season:
Spring

Flower Color:
Yellow
Exposure:
Sun or light shade
Soils:
Well-drained soil

Suggested Irrigation:
Moderate to little watering
Estimated Hardiness:
Hardy to 0 degrees F. or less

This impressive cultivar was introduced in the 1970s by Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, and remains a valuable selection. It shows its hybrid vigor in its sturdy, well branched trunks and large size. The plant can easily reach 8 feet in height and twice that in breadth. The leaves are 6-10 inches long, with several broad, thick, deep green leaflets. Masses of bright yellow flowers adorn the plant for several weeks in spring, followed by clusters of purple berries. Most mahonias prefer full sun near the coast, light shade inland, reasonably well drained soil, and moderate to little watering when established. Watch for and control the small loopers (a type of caterpillar) which attack and skeletonize the leaves. Hardy to 0 degrees F. or less.