Leatherleaf Mahonia (in bloom)

Description:

Leatherleaf mahonia is an evergreen shrub that can grow from 5-10 ft. (1.5-3 m) tall. Leaves are pinnately compound, 18 in. (46 cm) long, with 9-13 holly-like leaflets. Leaflets are 2-4 in. (5-10 cm) long and 1-2 in. (2.5-5.1 cm) wide. Flowering occurs in late winter and early spring, when fragrant, lemon-yellow flowers develop. The fruits are green berries, about a half inch long, that turn bluish black with a grayish bloom. Fruits hang in grapelike clusters. Leatherleaf mahonia is native to China. It has been planted as an ornamental and is now invading woodlands in the southern United States.

Habitat:

Spotted near Stilesboro Rd / Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield