Mahonia ganpinensis
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Thrives in any good garden soil]11]. Grows well in heavy clay soils.
Propagation
Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. 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 a cold frame for at least their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer. Division of suckers in spring. Leaf cuttings in the autumn.
Edible uses
Fruit - raw or cooked.
Medicinal uses
Antiseptic, odontalgic, poultice. Berberine, universally present in rhizomes of Mahonia species, has marked antibacterial effects.
Habitat
Damp woodlands.
Native range
E. Asia - China.