Description

This low growing variety of the Oregon grape grows in a dense mound of spiny leaves to about three feet. The leaves take on hues of red and orange in the fall, though Oregon grape is not deciduous. This shrub will slowly spread via underground rhizomes. In late spring long clusters of yellow flowers appear, followed by deep purple berries quickly eaten by birds. Compact Oregon grape is adaptable but seems to do best in partial shade with at least occasional water after it is established. This form is distinct from the plant sold as Mahonia repens, which has leaves that are more rounded and waxy than Berberis aquifolium var. repens.