Plant Profile: Berberis x hortensis 'Winter Sun'

The 'Winter Sun' mahonia is an impressive evergreen shrub that serves as a striking centerpiece in winter gardens. In December, its vibrant yellow flower spikes rise above its coarse, holly-like leaves, bringing a burst of color to the landscape.

This hybrid mahonia, selected for its superior qualities in Ireland in 1966, is relatively new to the Carolinas. It boasts a more compact growth form and produces more fragrant blooms compared to the traditional leatherleaf mahonia.

Despite its smaller stature, 'Winter Sun' can grow up to 8 feet tall if not pruned. It thrives best in a partially shaded, sheltered spot. During extended summer dry spells, it requires extra watering, and applying mulch around the roots can help protect it in winter while retaining moisture during the warmer months.

Additionally, this plant yields clusters of robin's egg-blue berries in late spring, which are a favorite among songbirds.

For further details, refer to information on Berberis x hortensis.