Algerita (Mahonia trifoliolata)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun
Frost limit: −17.8 °C

Cultivation

Unlike most members of the genus, this species requires a dry, perfectly drained position in full sun, a gritty slightly acid soil is best. The form in general cultivation in Britain (M. trifoliolata glauca. I.M.Johnst.) comes from the southern part of its range. The young growth in spring can be damaged by late frosts. A good bee plant. Resistant to honey fungus.

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a greenhouse. 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. Leaf cuttings in the autumn.

Edible uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. The roasted seed is a coffee substitute.

Medicinal uses

Berberine, universally present in rhizomes of Mahonia species, has marked antibacterial effects.

Material uses

A yellow dye is obtained from the inner bark of the stem and roots. An ink is made from the wood. Dark green, violet and dark blue-purple dyes are obtained from the fruit. A green dye is obtained from the leaves. Makes a good hedge. The wood is a source of tannin.