Oregon Grape (seed)

Mahonia aquifolium

Family: Berberidaceae
Perennial evergreen shrub. Native to the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The
leaves resemble holly, and in the spring the bright yellow, compound flowers emit
delightful fragrance, and soak up the dew like a sponge. Oregon Grape has a bitter
and cold energy, serving as a gentle stimulant to liver function while it controls
excessive secretions of the mucous membranes. It has thus been used to good effect
for treating psoriasis, poor appetite, indigestion, oral herpes and bronchitis. Contains
berberine, the same alkaloid found in Goldenseal, and is therefore used as a
Goldenseal substitute. Roots yield a golden dye. Cultivation: Extra care. Cold soil
germinator. Sow outdoors in fall or early spring. Allow seedlings to grow for a year
or more in nursery beds or in pots, then transplant to permanent location, 4 feet apart.
Grows to 6 feet.

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