Fremont Mahonia (Mahonia fremontii), also known as Fremont Barberry, is a striking evergreen shrub native to the arid landscapes of Utah and the surrounding regions. This hardy plant offers year-round interest, making it a perfect addition to xeriscape or low-water-use gardens. The shrub produces dense, spiny leaves that emerge burgundy, then green, and finally fading to blue with maturity. Bright yellow blooms emerge in the spring or early summer and later turn into dark purple berries. These berries can be eaten, but are extremely sour. They can also be used as a dye. Use Fremont Mahonia to give a rugged, architectural presence in any dry or difficult landscape. Whether used as a standalone specimen, in a shrub border, or as part of a naturalized hillside planting, Fremont’s Mahonia brings both visual interest and ecological benefits to your garden throughout the year! 
Photo Credits: C T Johansson and Andrey Zharkikh