Texas Mahonia (Mahonia swaseyi)

Family: Berberidaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Mahonia swaseyi is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Pleasantly acid, it can also be dried and used as raisins. — Fruit - raw but more usually cooked in preserves.; Pleasantly acid, it can also be dried and used as raisins.; Unfortunately, there is relatively little flesh and a lot of seeds.; The fruit, which can be dry or juicy, is up to 15mm in diameter.

Habitat & North American Range

Besides rocky streams in Texas. Endemic to the Edwards Plateau in Texas, where it grows on limestone ridges and canyons at elevations of 150-600 metres. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)