This family of shrubs from northern temperate zones comprises 4 genera and 570 species. Members of the genus Berberis typically have simple, spiny leaves and prickly stems while members of the genus Mahonia have thornless stems and leaves pinnately divided into leaflets. Both have bunches of small yellow or orange flowers with parts in sixes, followed by berries. Many species are cultivated as shade-tolerant and undemanding shrubs.
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