In the Kryvyi Rih district of the Dnipropetrovsk region, the harvest of holly-leaved mahonia is collected in winter. It is also known as California barberry, Oregon grape, or grape holly. This was reported by botanist Victoria Trotner in the "Nature of Kryvyi Rih" group on Facebook, as noted by "Vidomo".
"New Year is the harvest season. The berries of holly-leaved mahonia retain their flavor even under the snow. Central City District, Vsebratske village. January 4, 2025," she noted.
These berries resemble grapes in both taste and appearance. They are used for making wines, jams, compotes, juices, and confectionery products.
Oregon grape is unique in that it blooms all year round. Although it is decorative, it is also a very beneficial plant. It is used to treat eczema and other ailments.
The root, bark, and leaves of the plant serve as a choleretic, antiparasitic, antibacterial, and antiviral agent. Additionally, their infusion is used for dyeing fabric yellow. It is also utilized against tumors and psoriasis.