Mahonia

This genus includes about 90 species — nearly 60 native to Asia, the rest native to North and Central America. They are low to medium-tall evergreen shrubs with spiny-toothed leaves. Yellow flowers grow in clustered racemes or panicles. The blue fruits are most often covered with a bloom. Of the many species, only a few are cultivated. They prefer humus-rich, at least slightly acidic soil, adequate moisture, and semi-shaded locations. Common mahonia – the best-known and a very hardy plant.