Mahonia aquifolium 'Compacta'
Common name: 
Compact Oregon Grape
Pronunciation: 
ma-HO-ni-a a-kwi-FO-lee-um
Family: 
Berberidaceae
Genus: 
Mahonia
Synonyms: 
‘Compactum’
Type: 
Broadleaf
Native to (or naturalized in) Oregon: 
Yes
  • Broadleaf evergreen shrub, slower and lower growing than the species type, to 2-3 ft (0.6-0.9 m) high and spreading to about 5 ft (1.5 m) wide.  Spike-like clusters of yellow flowers followed by blue fruit as per the species.
  • Partial or full shade.  Performs best in moist, well-drained, acid soil, avoid hot, dry soils (such as in parking lots or strips) and desiccating winds.  By contnually removing upright shoots a 'Compacta' planting can be maintained as a ground cover.
  • Hardy to USDA Zone 5
Click image to enlarge
  • plant habit, summer fruiting

    plant habit, summer fruiting

  • ground cover, maintained for 10 years (photo by Dale Widner, Redding, CA)

    ground cover, maintained for 10 years (photo by Dale Widner, Redding, CA)

  • leaf

    leaf