California Barberry, Wavyleaf barberry, Island barberry, Creeping Holly Grape

Mahonia pinnata

Physical Characteristics

Mahonia pinnata is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. 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 Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America - California, Mexico.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 3, 105, 161]. An acid flavour but rather nice raw, especially when added to muesli or porridge[K]. Unfortunately, there is relatively little flesh and a lot of seeds[K]. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Antirheumatic Antitumor Dysentery Febrifuge Laxative Salve Tonic The bark is antirheumatic and febrifuge[257]. A decoction has been taken internally in the treatment of rheumatism, ague, consumption and heartburn[257]. A decoction has been used as a wash for cuts and bruises[257]. The liquid obtained from chewing the roots has been used as a salve and to prevent swelling from wounds and abrasions[257]. Berberine, universally present in rhizomes of Mahonia species, has marked antibacterial effects[218] and is used as a bitter tonic[213]. Since it is not appreciably absorbed by the body, it is used orally in the treatment of various enteric infections, especially bacterial dysentery[218]. It should not be used with Glycyrrhiza species (Liquorice) because this nullifies the effects of the berberine[218]. Berberine has also shown antitumour activity[218]. The root and root bark are best harvested in the autumn[213].

Known Hazards

None known