Nandina domestica

Berberidaceae

Dwarf Bamboo or Sacret Bamboo

Evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub with a bamboo-like appearance (though related to berberis); leaves turning to red and purple colours in autumn. 

Uses

Foliage plant, autumn colour, shrubbery, border plant.

Culture

Grows in sun or part shade in any well-drained soil, needs ample water and should ideally be mulched, sheltered position. It is grown more frequently in the shade in the tropics, and with less shade in temperate climates; otherwise very adaptable.

Propagation

Seed or layering. Sow seeds in autumn in a cold frame or greenhouse. Pot the seedlings on for 2-3 years before planting permanently. Otherwise, take 7.5-10cm cuttings from lateral shoots in autumn and grow in a cold frame. 

Cultivars

Cultivars include:

N. domestica (Sacred Bamboo): Forms bamboo-like clump to 2.5 metres, with young growth reddish and white flowers followed by bright red berries. It can become invasive.
N. domestica ‘Pygmaea’:  A dwarf form to 0.7 metres tall, sometimes smaller.

Plant Health

Frost-sensitive, but will survive short periods at freezing point, growing tips may be killed by frost; few pests and diseases.

More info

No information available at this time...

More from ACS