Nandina, Heavenly Bamboo

(Nandina domestica)

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Evergreen or semi-evergreen broadleaf
Height: 2 to 10 feet
Spread: 3 to 5 feet
Shape: Upright

Blue-green foliage is tinged red in winter, especially in full sun. Large clusters of red berries are attractive in fall and winter.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 6 to 9
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet to moist
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 6.4

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include border, specimen plant, and foundation.

Planting Notes:

Transplants readily. Buy container grown plants.
Select a location that is protected from harsh winds.
Grows best in moist, fertile soil.
Foliage color varies depending on sun the plant receives.

Care:

Careful pruning produces denser growth.
Prune 1/3 of plant's wood in spring by removing the oldest branches and any weak growth at ground level.
This plant adapts to extreme soil and exposure conditions and is easy to maintain.

Problems:

No serious insect or disease pests.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of NANDINA DOMESTICA:
`Alba' has off-white berries.
`Harbour Dwarf' is the best compact form. It branches from the ground forming a 2 to 3 ft. mound and has deep purple fall color.

Comments:

The unbranched, reed-like stems with evergreen leaves clustered at the tip give this plant an exotic, bamboo-like appearance.
The large clusters of red fruit create interest against the background of leafy growth.
Nandina is a highly ornamental plant that grows and fruits best in the warmer parts of Virginia.

Additional Materials:

The PRUNING SERIES videotape can be ordered through your local Extension office.
The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-500 "Winter Injury to Trees and Shrubs"
#426-607 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Broad-leaved Evergreens"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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