Mahonia confusa Nara Hiri - Hybrid Mahonia

Coming from Japan, Mahonia confusa 'Nara Hiri', also known as Mahonia eurybractea, is not only a rarity, but an exceptional variety. It brings a new texture to the garden with its almost carpet-like habit and its icy dark silver or pewter appearance. It is as striking as a fern, airy like a sacred bamboo, and exotic like a palm tree. An elusive shrub, it is not found in the world of temperate climate plants. Its soft foliage is adorned with lemon-yellow flowers from October to December. This evergreen bush adapts to all fresh soils, but it requires deep shade or semi-shade to thrive, away from the scorching sun.

Mahonia eurybractea 'Nara Hiri' belongs to the Berberidaceae family. It is a hybrid obtained by cross-breeding different Asian species, including Chinese ones. In nature, these plants grow in the shade of forests and undergrowth, and in thickets on rocky slopes up to 2000 m (6561.7 ft) altitude. This bush has a compact, spreading and low habit, reaching 120 cm (47.2 in) in height, with a spread of 150 cm (59.1 in). Its growth rate is moderate. Its foliage is exceptional: its leaves are extremely long, measuring up to 25 cm (9.8 in), and are divided into narrow, dark olive green spineless leaflets, which have metallic, pewter or silver reflections. From October to December, it produces soft, lemon-yellow flowers with a slight fragrance. From April to June, 'Nara Hiri' produces black-blue berries (4 to 6 mm (0.2 in) in diameter). Birds are fond of the berries. The berries can also be cooked for humans to consume, most notably in the form of excellent jellies.

Mahonia confusa 'Nara Hiri' is a shade or semi-shade plant, perfect in Asian or exotic inspired gardens. Use 'Nara Hiri' to create a striking scene with nandinas, ferns, and fritillaries. Thanks to its soft foliage, it can also be planted in containers to decorate a terrace and provide decoration in the winter months. However, ensure it is placed in the shade. In winter, the foliage of Mahonias can be used to make beautiful bouquets, but it is best to avoid picking them when there is a very hard frost.