Bill's Botanical Forays

The Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium (Pursh) Nutt.) is a flowering evergreen shrub in the Barberry Family (Berberidaceae) that is native to Western North America. It can become naturalized outside of its typical range if conditions are acceptable. In some places the plant is considered to be an exotic invasive. It is the State Flower of Oregon.

 

It can be found from sea level to 7,000 feet in oak forests, to conifer forests, and to sagebrush deserts.

In Washington, it can be found in almost every county. In Oregon, it grows mainly west of the Cascade crest and in the extreme Northeastern part of the state.

The leaves are up to 10 inches long and are pinnately compound with 5 to 9 leaflets per leaf. The leaflets are holly-like, leathery, and shiny with spines on the margins.

The flowers are bright yellow in dense clusters at the end of the branches.The edible fruits are dark-blue round berries. The berries are covered with a white waxy powder.

 

 

The Oregon Grape is not related to true grapes, but gets its name from the purple clusters of berries whose color and slightly dusted appearance are reminiscent of grapes.