Mahonia aquifolium

Mahonia aquifolium, also called grape bush or mahogany bush, is a medium-sized, evergreen shrub with pinnate leaves, the five to thirteen leaflets of which closely resemble holly leaves. From the end of February to April, it blooms with ascending clusters of fragrant, yellow to golden yellow flowers. Later in fall, followed by blue-black, edible berries. This grape shrub requires little pruning, does not like full afternoon sun, prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH soil, which is well-drained and sufficiently fertile. The plant is hardy, fairly drought tolerant, sea wind resistant and can also handle some air pollution. It attracts insects and bees and has a beautiful purplish autumn colour.