The Fragrant Shrub With Pretty Yellow Flowers That Will Feed The Birds In Your Yard

If you want to encourage more birds to spend time in your yard, planting flowers and shrubs that support them can help you accomplish that goal. Birds are often drawn to yards where plants provide food sources like berries and flowers. Including these types of plants in your yard, along with other important elements, can help make it much more appealing to your feathered friends. Certain flowering shrubs can serve a dual purpose by enhancing the appearance of your yard while also feeding birds and other visiting wildlife. One shrub that fits this description well is Mahonia 'Charity' (Mahonia x media 'Charity'). Not only does this shrub produce bright yellow flowers that have a sweet scent in winter, but it also develops clusters of rich purple, grape-like berries in the late summer and fall. In addition to attracting a variety of birds to your yard, this shrub is also popular for the beauty it adds to your outdoor spaces.

The mahonia's manageable size and natural shape make it a good fit for a wide range of planting locations. It's generally suited to hardiness zones 7 through 9, which makes it a good option for gardeners living in warmer regions. Planting this flowering evergreen alongside other bird-friendly shrubs or flowers can turn your yard and garden into a bird haven. Instead of fading out after flowering, the mahonia keeps its shape and presence thanks to its evergreen foliage, allowing it to be enjoyed year-round. But understanding the conditions this shrub prefers can help determine whether it's a good match for your yard.

There are a few things to know before planting mahonia in your yard. Mahonia 'Charity' typically prefers partial shade, especially in areas with warmer temperatures. Morning sun and afternoon shade usually produce the best results. The mahonia grows well in a variety of well-draining soil types including clay, loam, chalky, and sand as long as water doesn't pool around the roots. During the shrub's first year, it's better to keep the soil consistently moist. Once it's established, it becomes fairly drought-tolerant, requiring less water except during dry periods. Pruning is usually minimal and is mainly done to remove any damaged growth or to maintain the shrub's shape. Light tip pruning can help encourage a fuller, more bush-like appearance.

For gardeners interested in feeding birds, the Mahonia 'Charity' offers a simple way to add natural food sources to the yard. This flowering shrub is a nice choice for those who have the space and climate needed to let it grow without being crowded. Since it prefers to stay put once it's established, taking the time to select the right planting location from the beginning can help avoid any problems later. Although the mahonia handles temperate climates well, a layer of mulch around the base of the plant provides extra protection for the roots during colder winter weather. With the right placement and growing conditions, this flowering, berried shrub can be a rewarding addition to your yard that will feed the birds year after year.