The Japanese mahonia
Regarded as one of the best Mahonias for fragrance, Mahonia japonica is originally from Taiwan although commonly called the Japanese Mahonia.

This is a plant with very attractive flowers that appear in clusters from winter to spring depending a little on climate. The foliage is also interest year round with great texture.
Flowers are hollered by fruits with new black berries and the foliage will be tinged with red in colder climates. The flower spikes spread out in a flat open fan with a slight pendulous habit.
How to Grow Mahonia japonica
- Position
A position sheltered from strong winds is recommended. - Light
Best grown in full sun to a little afternoon shade in warmer climates. - Soil
A well drained soil is essential, it is plant that requires a well drained soil. - Watering
In long dry summers some extra water may be required.
Pruning
The best time to prune Mahonia japonica is in spring after flowering. You can cut back fairly hard. Ensure that you prune the upper part of the plant back a little harder than the lower part so that the lower foliage gets a good amount of light, this helps prevent dieback.
Try not to prune Mahonia varieties back into bare wood for best appearance after general pruning, although you can, if needed prune back to bare stems to around 30cm (12 inches) in spring and they will usually reshoot very quickly.
Mahonia japonica Summary Description
- Botanical Name – Mahonia japonica
- Common Name – Japanese mahonia
- Origins – Taiwan
- Position – Full sun to part shade
- Soil – well drained.
- Climate – Will grow in a range of climates zones.
- Height – To around 3m (9ft)
- Spread – To around 2m(6ft)
- Flowers – Yellow and fragrant
- Flowering Time – Winter to Spring
- Foliage – Mid to deep green, leathery and spiked margins.
Available for sale from the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au