Mahonia “Charity”
Oregon grape is Mahonia acquifolia, which blooms in the spring and is native to Oregon. On the other hand, Mahonia charity is a winter-flowering plant, starting its show in late fall and lasting through February.
Mahonia charity is a hybrid refined in the late 1950’s in Surrey, England; the original plant is found in Saville Gardens. A mature plant will grow to be over twelve feet tall. Wintering Anna’s Hummingbirds appreciate the blossoms of this plant, when not much else is in bloom. While the lemon yellow flowers are attractive, the fruits are striking, bluish berries.
The forest in the park is special this time of year, often draped in fog that makes it quiet and gives it a feeling of solitude.
