Oregon Grape Plant Care
Berberis aquifolium Pursh
Berberis aquifolium, the Oregon grape or holly-leaved barberry, is a North American species of flowering plant in the family Berberidaceae. It is an evergreen shrub growing up to 3 metres (10 ft) tall and 1.5 m (5 ft) wide.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–80°F
40–70%
What Is the Oregon Grape?
Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium) belongs to the Berberidaceae family within the Berberis genus. Oregon Grape is also known as Hollyleaf Barberry, Mountain Grape.
Oregon Grape displays an upright, dense shrub growth habit, reaching up to 6 inches tall with a spread of approximately 4 inches. Oregon Grape produces small yellow flowers in clusters.
Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Oregon Grape?
Berberis aquifolium requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Oregon Grape Need?
Oregon Grape thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Oregon Grape in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Oregon Grape Prefer?
Berberis aquifolium grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Oregon Grape prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Oregon Grape?
Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Oregon Grape to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Oregon Grape?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Oregon Grape?
Oregon Grape can be propagated through seeds, softwood cuttings.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Oregon Grape Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Oregon Grape?
Oregon Grape is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Oregon Grape Need?
Oregon Grape grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. In cooler regions, grow Oregon Grape as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Oregon Grape is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Berberis genus — compare its care with other Berberis species on PlantoScan.
Oregon Grape tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
Identify Plants Like the
Oregon Grape Instantly
Scan any plant with your iPhone camera and get instant ID, care tips, watering reminders, and disease checks — all in one app.
Free
to download
89%
accuracy
5.0
App Store
200K+
species