Red barberry (Mahonia haematocarpa)

Family: Berberidaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Mahonia haematocarpa is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3.6 m (11ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower in May. 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

acidic, it is used mainly for making jams and jellies in N. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Juicy and acidic, it is used mainly for making jams and jellies in N.; It makes an acceptable raw fruit and is especially nice when added to porridges or muesli.; Unfortunately, there is relatively little flesh and a lot of seeds.

Habitat & North American Range

Slopes and flats in desert shrubland, desert grassland, and dry oak woodland; 900-2300 m; Arizona., California., Colorado., Nevada., New Mexico, Tex.; Mexico. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)