Mahonia eurybracteata ‘Soft Caress’ — All the intrigue, none of the armor.

Feathery foliage and cheerful yellow blooms lend this mahonia an unexpected gentleness. Shade-loving and evergreen, it’s the woodland whisperer of the dry garden world.

Plant Details:

• Water Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established

• Sun Needs: Partial shade to full shade

• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil

• Growing Zone: USDA Zones 7–9

• Cold Hardiness: To ~5°F

• Mature Size: 3–4 ft tall × 3–4 ft wide

• Native Origin: China and Vietnam

• Best Substitutes For: Aucuba japonica, Leucothoe ‘Scarletta’

• Landscape Uses: Woodland gardens, shaded borders, foundation plantings