Mahonia trifoliolata (Agarita)

Agarita tells a story of resilient beauty. Its leaves have hues of green and blue but are very prickly, so the Agarita is best planted away from high-traffic areas. In the spring, it produces small yellow flowers, followed by red berries. The berries are edible and quite delicious – sweet yet tart if allowed to ripen. Agarita may look modest at first, even rough, but give it time and it will grow to an impressive shrub that anchors the space. Its flexible nature gives us choice in its use in the garden, and it is one of the few Texas native evergreens that are cherished by wildlife.   AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Low Sun exposure Full sun to part sun Bloom color Yellow Bloom time Spring Mature height 4-5 ft Mature spread 4-6 ft Evergreen Yes Attracts Birds, bees Edible Yes, berries Deer resistant Yes   DISTRIBUTION MAPS  USDA MAP BONAP MAP  Present in state  Present in county and native  Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state           Not present in state  Present and rare, native in county  Previously present, now extinct  Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)