Heavenly Bamboo

Nandina (Nandina domestica)

Nandina (Nandina domestica), also known as Heavenly Bamboo or Sacred Bamboo, is a semi-evergreen to evergreen shrub admired for its colorful foliage and graceful, upright form. Despite its common name, it is not a true bamboo, but its cane-like stems and airy structure give it a similar architectural presence in the landscape. With year-round visual interest from changing leaf colors and vibrant berries, Nandina is a reliable, multi-season plant for a variety of garden settings.

Distinctive Features

Nandina domestica is valued for its delicate, compound leaves that shift from reddish-bronze in spring to medium green in summer, then take on brilliant red and burgundy tones in fall and winter. Small white flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, giving way to clusters of bright red berries that persist into winter, offering ornamental appeal and seasonal contrast. Its vertical, layered growth habit makes it a natural focal point in garden compositions.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerant of a wide range
• Water Needs: Moderate; more frequent watering during establishment
• Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9
• Mature Size: Typically 4 to 6 feet tall and 2 to 4 feet wide

Ideal Uses

• Foundation plantings and mixed borders
• Woodland gardens or shaded understory areas
• Accent plant or focal point in small spaces
• Container plantings for patios and entryways
• Mass plantings for erosion control or privacy screening

Low Maintenance Care

• Prune selectively to maintain a full, bushy shape and remove leggy canes
• Mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
• Monitor for sucker growth and remove if not desired for naturalized effect
• Deer-resistant and generally pest-free

Why Choose Nandina

• Year-round color from foliage and berries
• Graceful form with layered texture and movement
• Tolerant of heat, drought, and a range of soils once established
• Compact size ideal for residential and urban landscapes
• Low maintenance and highly adaptable

Nandina domestica provides striking foliage color and architectural interest through all seasons, making it a versatile option for adding structure and visual richness to any garden design.