Seed of most Oregon-grapes exhibit internal dormancy and require cold stratification for germination. In Pacific silver fir communities, dwarf Oregon-grape is generally restricted to warm, dry sites. Dwarf Oregon-grape grows in maritime to submaritime climates. Facultative Seral Species Dwarf Oregon-grape is an important component of both seral and climax communities of the Pacific Northwest. Perennials such as dwarf Oregon-grape may not become prominent on intensely burned sites until midsuccessional stages.
Plants flower in early to late spring.