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Leatherleaf Mahonla or
Chinese Grape Holly
Mahonia
bealei
 Identification
A stiff, prickly evergreen shrub somewhat resembling native American
holly (Ilex
opaca)
but instead having large compound leaves and yellow flowers with
blue berries. It can grow up to 12 feet tall in favorable
conditions.
Origin
China
Habitat
Prefers moist woodlands, but can be grown in drier areas and even
out in the open. Highly shade tolerant. Not heat or extreme drought
tolerant.
Ecological Threat
Although this plant is not yet considered a noxious weed in many
states, it has been recognized as invasive in Georgia. Mahonia can
escape landscaping by seeding into the natural areas adjacent to
where it is planted. Birds can carry the seeds for great distances
after consuming the fruit in fall and winter. Mahonia threatens to
invade woodlands and push out rare native plants by competing for
available nutrients and space in forest understories.
Recommended Native Alternatives
-
American
Holly (Ilex opaca)
-
Spicebush (Lindera
benzoin)
-
American
Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
These pages are designed to give the
layperson a general overview of non-native invasive plants commonly
found in the upper Hiwassee River watershed. For more comprehensive
and technical information about a particular species, visit one of
the web sites from our
Links
page. |
