Mahonia flavida

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a greenhouse^[1]. It usually germinates in the spring[K]. 'Green' seed (harvested when the embryo has fully developed but before the seed case has dried) should be sown as soon as it is harvested and germinates within 6 weeks[K]. Stored seed should be sown as soon as possible in late winter or spring. 3 weeks cold stratification will improve its germination, which should take place in 3 - 6 months at 10°c. Prick out the seedlings when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer and consider giving them some protection from the cold for their next winter.

Division of suckers in spring^[1]. Whilst they can be placed direct into their permanent positions, better results are achieved if they are potted up and placed in a frame until established^[2].

Leaf cuttings in the autumn.

We have very little information on this species, though we know it should tolerate temperatures down to about -5°c^[3], and so should be hardy at least in the milder areas of Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.

An easily grown shrub, it thrives in any good garden soil^[2] including heavy clays. Prefers a semi-shaded woodland position in a damp, slightly acid to neutral humus-rich soil^[4]. Plants are very tolerant of pruning and can be cut right back into old wood if they have outgrown their welcome^[5].

Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus.