Berberis and Mahonia are two widespread and common members of the Berberidaceae, found in many countries. Botanists have for many years had no consensus on the classification, some preferring to treat the group as a single genus (Berberis), while others opt to separate the two groups into distinct genera. Therefore, many species have two scientific name, one in Berberis, the other in Mahonia, each used by botanists on one side the debate.