Charity Mahonia

Charity Mahonia (Mahonia x media 'Charity')

Charity Mahonia (Mahonia x media 'Charity') is a striking evergreen shrub admired for its bold, spiny foliage and impressive winter flower display. With an upright, architectural form and cascading racemes of fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in late fall to early winter, 'Charity' brings dramatic structure and color when few other plants are in bloom. Its tough nature and year-round interest make it an excellent choice for shaded gardens, foundation plantings, and winter focal points.

Distinctive Features

'Charity' features large, pinnate leaves with sharply toothed, holly-like leaflets that emerge in a lush green and take on bronzy tones in colder weather. From late November into January, it produces tall, showy sprays of lemon-yellow flowers that rise above the foliage and attract early pollinators. Blue-black berries may follow in spring. This vigorous hybrid typically reaches 8 to 12 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide, with a multi-stemmed, upright habit that adds strong vertical form to the landscape.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade; tolerates morning sun
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to a variety of soil types
• Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Winter-blooming flowers and bold foliage make a strong statement
• Shade Gardens: Adds structure and interest under trees or along north-facing walls
• Foundation Planting: Provides year-round color and form near buildings
• Winter Interest Gardens: Blooms during the off-season when color is scarce
• Wildlife Gardens: Supports early pollinators with fragrant winter blooms

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water consistently during establishment; tolerates dry spells once rooted
• Pruning: Prune after flowering to shape or rejuvenate older plants
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost in early spring
• Mulching: Maintain mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Disease Resistance: Generally free of serious pests and diseases

Why Choose Charity Mahonia?

• Seasonal Flowers: Bright yellow blooms provide welcome color in winter
• Evergreen Impact: Bold foliage adds year-round texture and presence
• Architectural Form: Upright habit creates vertical drama in shady settings
• Pollinator Friendly: One of the few nectar sources in late fall and winter
• Focal Point: A commanding specimen plant for shaded borders and entries

Mahonia x media 'Charity' brings structure, color, and ecological benefit to the winter garden. Its sculptural form, long-lasting flowers, and evergreen foliage make it a standout in any landscape where year-round interest is desired.