Mahonia Winter Sun

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Price range: $29.99 through $64.99

Mahonia Winter Sun is an evergreen shrub with bold, spiny foliage and fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in winter, adding color, structure, and interest to shaded landscapes.

Product Category

Winter Sun Mahonia

Mahonia × media ‘Winter Sun’

Mahonia Winter Sun is a striking evergreen shrub valued for its dramatic foliage and cheerful winter flowers. The large, glossy, spiny leaves provide bold texture throughout the year, while upright clusters of bright yellow, lightly fragrant blooms appear in mid to late winter when few other plants are flowering. These blossoms often attract early pollinators and are followed by decorative blue-black berries in spring.

This mahonia thrives in shaded to partially shaded areas, making it a standout choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and foundation plantings. Its upright, architectural growth habit creates strong visual structure, whether planted as a specimen or in small groups. It is particularly appreciated for its ability to bring color and life to the garden during the colder months, all while requiring minimal maintenance once established.

Care Instructions

Planting:
Plant in partial shade to full shade. Protection from strong afternoon sun helps prevent leaf scorch.

Watering:
Water consistently during establishment. Once established, it prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate short dry periods.

Pruning:
Prune after flowering to remove spent blooms and shape the plant as needed.

Pest Control:
Generally pest and disease resistant. Occasionally monitor for aphids or scale insects.

Soil Tips:
Prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil. Mulching helps retain moisture and improve soil health.

Plant TypeShrubs
Hardiness Zone(s)5, 6, 7, 8, 9
ExposurePartial Sun, Shade
Season of InterestSpring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Plant Height3' - 6' (ft), 6' - 8' (ft)
Plant Spread2' - 4' (ft), 3' - 6' (ft)
Spacing4' - 5' (ft)
Water NeedsAverage
Maintenance LevelLow
Soil TypeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil PHAlkaline, Acidic, Neutral
Soil DrainageMoist but Well Drained
Bloom ColorYellow
Foliage ColorGreen
CharacteristicsEvergreen, Fragrant, Fruit & Berries
TolerancesCold, Drought, Deer
AttractsButterflies, Birds
Garden UsesBeds and Borders, Mass Planting, Patio and Containers, Specimen

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