Beale's Barberry
Mahonia bealei
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
48"–96" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
Feb, Mar, Apr
Native to
NC
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Mahonia bealei is a bold evergreen shrub with large, holly-like compound leaves and fragrant yellow flower clusters in late winter to early spring. The architectural foliage provides year-round structure, followed by blue-black berries that attract birds.
In an HOA neighborhood
Beale's Barberry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Large mature size may exceed HOA plant size restrictions
- Spiny leaves can be considered unfriendly for pedestrian areas
- Non-native species may not meet native plant requirements
Wildlife value
Early spring blooms provide crucial nectar for bees and beetles when few other plants are flowering. The berries feed various songbirds throughout summer.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Beale's Barberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.