PNW Native
Creeping Oregon-grape is not a grape, but in fact a barberry. The shrub grows to just under 2 ft. tall and bears almost identical resemblance to its close relative, tall Oregon-grape aside from height. Leaves are alternate, broadleaf, evergreen, with spiky perimeters and 5-7 opposite leaflets. (2) Creeping Oregon-grape Ranges along the West coast, from British Columbia to Northern Mexico. (3)
Oregon-grape grows in both old-growth forests and forests earlier in the stages of ecological succession, and its abundance in the understory increases significantly after a small disturbance such as a low-intensity fire. They were one of the first plants to recolonize after the Mt. St. Helens eruption. (3) Oregon-grape spreads through rhizomes (2)
Oregon-grape contains an alkaloid called berberine, which gave the plant a medicinal usage by Native Americans, and also was used by them to create a vibrant yellow dye from the roots and bark. (1)
Oregon-grape was prevalent enough for the explorers Lewis and Clark to collect samples of the plant on their 1805 voyage. (1)
The alkaloid berberine makes Oregon-grape a potent antiparasitic and antiviral medicine with potential to aid in treating diabetes and lowering cholesterol levels. The holly-like leaves make Oregon-grape a common filler plant in floral arrangements. It is recommended as a ground cover in Eastern Washington (1)
