| Mexican Barberry | |
| Berberis gracilis | |
| a.k.a. Mahonia gracilis |
A prolific berry-like fruit with a smooth, blue skin. The fruits are reportedly edible (though we haven't tried eating them).
Description: A fairly short shrubby tree, growing to 5-10ft. Fruits are born in long clusters and ripen from white to pink-blue and then finally blue. Fruits in all stages of ripeness can be found on the tree at the same time, creating a nice visual. The fruits are popular with birds as well.
Hardiness: Hardy to about 20F.
Growing Environment: A fairly hardy shrub once established. Grow in full sun or part-shade. Water moderately during warm months but it should show some drought tolerance once established.
Propagation: By seeds.
Uses: The plant makes a pretty landscape shrub, mainly for its nice leaves and pretty fruits. The fruits are popular with birds as well.
Native Range: Native range includes Mexico and a tiny part of the southwestern United States.