Oregon grape Charity (in 3 liter pot)

Oregon grape Charity, Mahonia x media 'Charity'

Main Interest

The Mahonia x media 'Charity' is an exceptional evergreen shrub that truly transforms the garden during the dormant season. Unlike most plants that disappear in winter, this hybrid cultivar stands out with its spectacular yellow flowering that illuminates shady areas in the heart of the cold season, typically from December to February. Its majestic, very architectural habit and long pinnate leaves give it an exotic and graphic appearance, reminiscent of ferns or hollies, adding essential verticality to borders. Beyond its striking visual appeal, it is highly prized for the enchanting fragrance of its flowers, reminiscent of lily-of-the-valley, which attracts the few pollinators active in winter, such as bumblebees. Particularly robust and hardy, the Oregon grape Charity adapts perfectly to shady or semi-shady corners. It is an ideal choice for creating an impenetrable defensive hedge thanks to its spiny foliage or acting as a majestic focal point. Its ability to thrive in various soil types makes it a versatile asset for any gardener.

Origins and Characteristics

Geographical Origin

This magnificent shrub is the result of a horticultural cross (hybridisation) between Mahonia lomariifolia and Mahonia japonica. The cultivar 'Charity' was first selected in Northern Ireland, at the Slieve Donard nurseries, in the 1950s.

Botanical Family

It belongs to the large Berberidaceae family, which also includes barberries (Berberis) and perennials like Epimedium.

Notable Particularities

Historically, this cross was bred to combine the length of the inflorescences of the parent lomariifolia with the superior hardiness of japonica. Its leaflets are extremely spiny, making it a very effective natural barrier plant against animal intrusions whilst remaining ornamental.

Description and Particularities

Adult Height

At maturity, the Mahonia x media 'Charity' is an imposing shrub that can reach a remarkable height of 3.50 metres. This dimension is acquired over the years, as the plant gradually grows on vertical woody stems.

Adult Width

In terms of spread, this shrub also occupies significant space, potentially spreading about 3.50 metres wide. Its spreading habit requires sufficient space to be provided from planting so it can unfurl its branches.

Habit (General Shape)

The habit of the Oregon grape Charity is naturally upright and bushy, with a tendency to become bare at the base as it ages, revealing its sculptural stems. This architecture gives it a very structured graphic silhouette.

Bark (Characteristics, Colour, Particularities)

The bark of the main stems is greyish-brown in colour, becoming deeply fissured and corky with age. This rough texture adds character to the plant, particularly visible when the shrub gains height and the trunk becomes exposed.

Foliage (Type of Foliage, Colour, Seasonal Changes)

The evergreen foliage is composed of very long odd-pinnate leaves that can measure up to 60 cm. Each leaf bears numerous leathery, toothed, and spiny leaflets, dark green and glossy. In winter, some leaves may turn red or purple due to the cold.

Growth (Growth Rate)

Its growth is medium to fast during the first years following installation, especially if it benefits from rich and cool soil. Once well-established, the rate stabilises, allowing the shrub to densify its framework.

Hardiness (Temperature Supported)

This cultivar demonstrates good hardiness, capable of withstanding temperatures down to -15°C or even -18°C for short periods. However, its evergreen foliage can be damaged by freezing and drying winds; a sheltered position is therefore preferable.

Flowering and Fruiting

Flowering Period

One of the major assets of this variety is its prolonged winter flowering. The flowers generally bloom from December to February, braving the cold and sometimes even snow.

Detailed Description of Flowers

The flowers appear in the form of long erect spikes (racemes) capable of reaching 30 cm long. They consist of small bells of a bright lemon yellow, releasing a sweet and powerful fragrance, very pleasant during sunny winter days.

Fruits

After flowering, clusters of blue-black berries with a waxy bloom form. These fruits are decorative and edible once cooked (for jams), although very acidic when raw. They serve primarily as essential food for birds at the end of winter.

Melliferous Characteristics or Attractive to Wildlife

The Mahonia x media 'Charity' is a highly melliferous plant and vital for winter biodiversity. Its abundant and accessible nectar offers a crucial food source for bumblebees and honeybees venturing out during winter thaws.

Exposure and Soil

Ideal Exposure

The ideal exposure for this Mahonia is partial shade or full shade. It tolerates morning or evening sun but fears the scorching rays of midday sun which can scorch its foliage.

Adapted Soil Type

It thrives in soil that is rich in humus, cool, and well-drained. Although it tolerates slight limestone, it prefers neutral to slightly acidic soils. It fears waterlogged soils in winter.

Planting

Tips for Preparing the Soil

Before planting, it is crucial to loosen the soil deeply. Incorporate a good amount of mature compost or leaf mould to enrich the earth and improve its water retention capacity.

Spacing Between Plants

Given its future development (3.50 m wide), allow a spacing of at least 1.50 to 2 metres between each plant if planting a free hedge.

Nature of the Soil

The soil should preferably be humus-rich, cool but without excess stagnant moisture, and rather neutral to acidic. Avoid extremely calcareous soils or very sandy soils.

How to Plant

Planting is possible all year round outside of frost periods. Soak the root ball in water until saturated. Dig a hole two to three times wider than the pot. Place the plant and backfill with the soil-compost mixture.

Watering

Water Needs at Planting

Rigorous monitoring of watering is necessary the first year, and particularly during the first summer following planting. The substrate must remain slightly moist to encourage rooting.

Water Needs at Maturity

Once well-established, the Mahonia becomes relatively tolerant of temporary drought. However, to maintain beautiful foliage and abundant flowering, it is advisable to water in case of prolonged drought.

Pruning

When and How to Prune

Pruning is not strictly necessary but can be carried out to densify the plant. Intervene after flowering (March-April). You can shorten bare stems to stimulate the growth of new branches lower down.

Propagation

Possible Propagation Methods

The most reliable method to propagate the cultivar 'Charity' is by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer (September).

Uses in the Garden

Ideal Location for the Plant

Its favourite spot is at the back of a shady border to create a structuring backdrop, or as a solitary specimen on a lawn. It is also excellent in a mixed defensive hedge.

Recommended Plant Associations

Associate it with Witch Hazels (Hamamelis), Hellebores (Christmas Roses), Sarcococca, or evergreen ferns like Dryopteris. 

Traditional Uses

Description of Historical or Cultural Uses

The roots and inner bark contain berberine, formerly used to produce a yellow dye. The berries, rich in vitamin C, can be used to make acidic jellies.

Protection Against Diseases and Pests

Possible Sensitivities

The Mahonia can be sensitive to powdery mildew (white coating on leaves) if the air is too confined, as well as to rust.

Prevention Tips and Natural Treatments

Ensure good air circulation around the plant. In case of powdery mildew, spraying with sulphur or horsetail decoction can be effective. Avoid watering the foliage.

Tips for Good Development

Practical Tips for Fostering Good Development

Apply a layer of compost or rotted manure to the base of the plant every autumn. An organic mulch is indispensable to maintain soil moisture in summer.

Differences and Specificities of the Cultivar

The cultivar 'Charity' is clearly distinguished from other Mahonias by its much more upright and architectural habit. Compared to M. japonica, it blooms earlier in the season and offers longer and straighter flower spikes.

The Mahonia x media 'Charity' is an essential shrub to structure the garden and bring life in winter. Thanks to its bright yellow flowering and its delicate fragrance, it offers a unique sensory spectacle. Its evergreen, graphic, and spiny foliage ensures a permanent decor while serving as a refuge for wildlife. Its large size (3.50 m) allows it to play a major architectural role. Easy to grow, hardy, and adaptable, it is a durable plant that enhances shady areas.