This evergreen shrub adds interest all year to shady areas. Its glossy, holly-like compound leaves are dark green, turning purple-red in the winter. It has clusters of bright yellow flowers in the spring, followed by blue berries, which are edible but sour. This compact variety will only grow to 2 to 3 feet tall but will eventually spread to a 5-foot mound.

Oregon grape hollies prefer part to full shade and evenly moist soil. They can scorch in an area exposed to afternoon sun and wind. Typically they are disease and pest free. They work well in woodland gardens as foundation plants in sheltered areas.