Charity Mahonia
Basic Information
Common Name: Charity Mahonia
Scientific Name: Mahonia x media ‘Charity’
Native Habitat: Hybrid origin; parents native to China and Taiwan.
History / Discovery / Cultivator
Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is a hybrid plant resulting from the crossbreeding of two distinct Mahonia species: Mahonia japonica and Mahonia lomarifolia. This cross occurred in cultivation, representing a deliberate effort to combine the desirable traits of both parent plants. The resulting hybrid, ‘Charity’, exhibits exceptional ornamental qualities, making it a highly sought-after plant for gardens and landscapes.
The history of Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is rooted in the horticultural practices of the 20th century, when plant breeders sought to create new and improved cultivars by hybridizing different species. While the specific individuals involved in the initial hybridization may not always be clearly documented, the development of ‘Charity’ is generally attributed to advancements in horticultural knowledge and techniques.
Mahonia japonica, one of the parent plants, is native to Japan. It’s a shrub known for its fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in late autumn and winter, and its attractive foliage that provides year-round interest. Mahonia lomarifolia, the other parent plant, originates from China and Taiwan. It is known for its upright growth habit and long, spiny leaves that resemble those of a holly.
The hybrid ‘Charity’ combines the best characteristics of both parents. It inherited the winter-flowering habit and fragrant flowers from Mahonia japonica and the upright growth habit and attractive foliage from Mahonia lomarifolia. The name ‘Charity’ may reflect the plant’s tendency to flower during the winter months, a time when other plants are dormant.
‘Charity’ quickly gained popularity among gardeners and landscapers due to its striking appearance and winter flowering. The plant’s architectural form, with its upright stems and evergreen foliage, makes it an excellent choice for adding structure and interest to gardens throughout the year. Its fragrant yellow flowers provide a welcome splash of color during the colder months, attracting pollinators such as bees and other insects.
The successful cultivation and propagation of ‘Charity’ have led to its widespread availability in nurseries and garden centers. Plant propagation methods such as stem cuttings have been used to produce large numbers of plants, ensuring that gardeners around the world can enjoy the beauty and benefits of this exceptional hybrid.
Over the years, Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ has earned numerous accolades and awards from horticultural societies and organizations. These awards recognize the plant’s outstanding ornamental qualities, its ease of cultivation, and its overall contribution to garden design. The plant remains a popular choice among gardeners who appreciate its beauty, resilience, and winter flowering.
The discovery and cultivation of Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ represent a significant achievement in plant breeding and horticulture. The plant’s unique combination of traits, its ease of cultivation, and its winter flowering have made it a cherished addition to gardens and landscapes around the world.
Plant Care Summary
| Category | General Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Partial Shade | Prefers shade or dappled sunlight; avoid harsh afternoon sun. |
| Water | Moderate | Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogging. |
| Humidity | Moderate | Generally tolerates average humidity levels. |
| Temp. Range | Hardy | Tolerant of cold temperatures; typically hardy to -10°C (14°F). |
| Soil Type | Well-draining | Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil; ensure good drainage. |
| Fertilizer | Spring | Feed with a balanced fertilizer in early spring. |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic | Berries may cause mild stomach upset if ingested. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ exhibits several adaptations that contribute to its success as a garden plant. Its evergreen foliage allows it to photosynthesize year-round, providing a constant source of energy. The spiny leaves serve as a deterrent to herbivores, protecting the plant from grazing animals. Additionally, its winter flowering habit allows it to attract pollinators during a time when few other plants are in bloom, giving it a competitive advantage in the environment. The plant’s tolerance to shade enables it to thrive in woodland gardens and other partially shaded locations.
Propagation Methods
Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ can be propagated using several methods. Stem cuttings are a common and effective way to produce new plants. Cuttings are typically taken in late summer or early autumn and rooted in a well-draining potting mix. Seed propagation is also possible, although it can be slower and less reliable than stem cuttings. Grafting can also be used, but it is less common than other propagation methods.
Toxicology
The berries of Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ are considered mildly toxic to humans and pets. Ingestion of the berries may cause stomach upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The leaves and stems may also contain compounds that can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. It’s important to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets and to wash your hands thoroughly after handling the plant. If ingestion occurs, it’s advisable to contact a medical professional or veterinarian for guidance.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Aphids
- Scale
- Spider mites
Diseases:
- Leaf spot
- Rust
Other:
- Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) – Can be caused by nutrient deficiencies or alkaline soil.
- Leaf scorch – Can be caused by excessive sun exposure or lack of water.
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is not generally considered rare, but exceptional specimens with particularly vibrant foliage or unique growth habits can be more difficult to find. Its relatively easy propagation contributes to its widespread availability.
Value:
The value of a Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ specimen is influenced by several factors, including its size, maturity, and overall health. Larger, well-established plants command higher prices due to their immediate visual impact. Plants with a robust flowering display and healthy, undamaged foliage are also more valuable. Demand for the plant tends to peak during the autumn and winter months, when its winter flowering adds a touch of color to gardens.
