Nandina Heavenly Bamboo
Original price
$15.00
-
Original price
$15.00
Original price
$15.00
$15.00
-
$15.00
Current price
$15.00
Nandina Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina domestica)
- Botanical Name: Nandina domestica. This upright, evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub belongs to the Berberidaceae (barberry) family and is native to eastern Asia (China, India, and Japan).
- Common Names: Heavenly Bamboo, Sacred Bamboo, Nandina. It earns its common name from its cane-like stems and lacy, compound leaves that resemble bamboo, though it is not a true bamboo.
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- Average Height and Diameter (Spread): Standard forms typically reach 4–8 feet tall and 2–5 feet wide. Dwarf cultivars (such as ‘Firepower’ or ‘Gulf Stream’) stay much more compact at 1.5–4 feet tall and wide.
- Growth Rate: Moderate to moderately fast. It establishes steadily and can fill in an area within a few years, spreading via underground rhizomes in addition to vertical cane growth.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade. Full sun produces the most vibrant foliage colors (especially red winter tones) and better berry production, while it tolerates light to moderate shade. In very hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
- Cold Hardiness: Reliable in USDA Zones 6–9B (sometimes to Zone 10 with protection). It is evergreen in warmer zones but may become semi-evergreen or deciduous in colder parts of its range, with possible dieback below 10F. It tolerates heat well and performs strongly in southern and mild winter climates.
- Water Requirements: Medium moisture during establishment, then quite drought-tolerant once mature. Water regularly (about 1 inch per week) for the first year to develop a strong root system, keeping soil evenly moist but not soggy. Established plants handle dry spells well; supplemental deep watering during extended drought helps maintain foliage quality and color. Avoid constant wet feet to prevent root issues.
- Detailed Fertilizing Guide: Nandina is a light feeder and does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for shrubs or evergreens (such as 10-10-10 or one labeled for acid-loving plants) in early spring as new growth emerges. A light second application in early summer can be beneficial if growth is slow. Alternatively, top-dress with 2–3 inches of organic compost or well-rotted manure around the base annually. Yellowing leaves may indicate a need for nitrogen. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can promote weak, leggy growth at the expense of color and berries. Cease feeding in late summer to harden off before winter.
- Planting Guide: Plant in spring or fall for best root establishment. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. Position the plant at the same soil level it was growing in its container. Backfill with amended native soil mixed with compost for improved drainage and nutrients. Water deeply after planting and apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the stems. Space plants 3–6 feet apart depending on the cultivar and use. Provide consistent moisture until established. No immediate staking is needed due to its upright habit.
- USDA Zone: Primarily Zones 6–9B, with good performance in protected sites of Zone 5 or warmer Zone 10 areas.