Mexican Barberry (Mahonia gracilis)

Family: Berberidaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Mahonia gracilis is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from February to March. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The fruit of all members of the genus is edible either raw or cooked, though we do not know the quality of this species. The ovoid fruit is produced in racemes and is up to 12mm long. — The fruit of all members of the genus is edible either raw or cooked, though we do not know the quality of this species.; The ovoid fruit is produced in racemes and is up to 12mm long.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry ravines in open pine forests in limestone soils. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)