Mahonia eurybracteata 'Sweet Winter'

A superb choice for bringing structure and scent to the winter garden without the formidable prickles of traditional varieties.

Unlike the sharp, holly-like leaves of common Oregon Grape, this sophisticated Chinese species features softer, fern-like foliage that is far friendlier to the touch. The slender, deep green leaflets provide a graceful, architectural backdrop year-round, but the real show begins in late autumn and winter. Just as other plants are retreating, it produces upright sprays of bright lemon-yellow flowers that release a wonderful, sweet fragrance into the cold air.

Reaching a compact 1m–1.2m, it is an excellent candidate for a large patio container near a doorway or brightening a shady woodland border. It is hardy and robust, followed by decorative blue-black berries that provide a welcome treat for birds in early spring.

Barnsdale tip: Although it requires very little maintenance, this plant can occasionally get a little leggy at the base as it matures. To keep it bushy and clothed in foliage right to the ground, prune the longest stems back by about a third immediately after flowering finishes in late winter.

November-March flowering. Grows in sun or semi-shade in any garden soil. Height & spread: 120cm x 120cm (47" x 47").