Cascade Oregon Grape Plant: Learn About Oregon Grape Care In Gardens
If you live in or have visited the Pacific Northwest, it’s quite likely you ran across the Cascade Oregon grape plant. What is an Oregon grape? This plant is an extremely common undergrowth plant, so common that Lewis and Clark collected it during their 1805 exploration of the Lower Columbia River. Interested in growing a Cascade Oregon grape plant? Read on to learn about Oregon grape care.
What is Oregon Grape?
Cascade Oregon grape plant (Mahonia nervosa) goes by several names: longleaf mahonia, cascade mahonia, dwarf Oregon grape, cascade barberry, and dull Oregon grape. Most commonly the plant is simply referred to as the Oregon grape. Oregon grape is an evergreen shrub/groundcover that is slow growing and only reaches about 2 feet (61 cm.) in height. It has long, jagged, glossy green leaves that take on a purple tint during the winter months.
In the spring, April through June, the plant flowers with tiny yellow blooms in erect terminal clusters or racemes followed by waxy, blue fruit. These berries look much akin to blueberries; however, they taste like anything but. While they are edible, they are extremely tart and historically used more medicinally or as a dye than as a food source.
Cascade Oregon grape is commonly found in secondary growth, under the closed canopies of Douglas fir trees. Its native range is from British Columbia to California and east into Idaho.
Growing Cascade Oregon Grape
The secret to growing this shrub is to mimic its natural habitat. Since this is an undergrowth plant that thrives in a temperate environment, it is hardy to USDA zone 5 and thrives in partial shade to shade with plenty of moisture.
Cascade Oregon grape plant will tolerate a wide array of soil types but flourishes in rich, slightly acidic, humus-rich, and moist but well-draining soil. Dig a hole for the plant and mix in a good amount of compost before planting.
Care is minimal; in fact, once established, Oregon grape is an extremely low maintenance plant and an excellent addition to native planted landscapes.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter".
Amy Grant has been gardening for 30 years and writing for 15. A professional chef and caterer, Amy's area of expertise is culinary gardening.
-
Holiday Evergreen Plants: 9 Unique Evergreens For Holiday Cheer That Can Last All Year!
Not all holiday evergreen plants conform to the traditional standard, so get ready to broaden your mind and brighten your festive spirits with these unique holiday evergreens
By Janey Goulding
-
9 Wild Spice Plants To Try: Flavor-Packed Foraging To Spice Up Your Life
If growing spices feels like a hit and miss affair, why not forage for spices growing in the wild? Here are 9 wild spice plants to add a dash of heat to your culinary exploits
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
Mahonia Information: Learn How To Grow A Leatherleaf Mahonia Plant
When you want unique shrubs with a certain type of whimsy, consider leatherleaf mahonia plants. With long, upright shoots of yellow clustered flowers that extend out like octopus legs, growing it makes you feel you have stepped into a Dr. Seuss book. Learn more here.
By Teo Spengler
-
Grape Holly Plant Care - How And Where To Plant Oregon Grape Hollies And Creeping Mahonia
Grape holly plant is not only easy to grow and care for but adds year-round interest with its attractive foliage color and texture. Read this article for information on caring for both Oregon and creeping grape holly.
By Jackie Carroll