Leatherleaf Mahonia

Leatherleaf mahonia is an evergreen shrub that can grow from 5-10 ft. (1.5-3 m) tall. Leaves are pinnately compound, 18 in. (46 cm) long, with 9-13 holly-like leaflets. Leaflets are 2-4 in. (5-10 cm) long and 1-2 in. (2.5-5.1 cm) wide. Flowering occurs in late winter and early spring, when fragrant, lemon-yellow flowers develop. The fruits are green berries, about a half inch long, that turn bluish black with a grayish bloom. Fruits hang in grapelike clusters. Leatherleaf mahonia is native to China. It has been planted as an ornamental and is now invading woodlands in the southern United States.