Plant of the Week – Nandina

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The Japanese Sacred Bamboo (Nandina domestica) grows naturally in Japan, China and south-east Asia through to eastern India. It is said to be the most commonly used plant in Japan. Even more popular in Australian gardens is its dwarf form, Nandina domestica ‘Nana’ (‘nana’ means small or dwarf).

In our segment Don looked at nandinas and some of the newer varieties that are available. Although these plants have bamboo-like foliage they are not related to bamboo, so there is no need to worry about them taking over the garden.

Plant details


Common name: Japanese sacred bamboo

Botanic name: Nandina domestica

Description: An evergreen shrub with many erect, cane-like stems arising from the base.

Large panicles of creamy white flowers in summer and autumn are followed by two-seeded scarlet fruit, which stays on the plant till late winter. Nandinas are considered an environmental weed, as birds eat the berries and spread the seed in their droppings. However, the dwarf cultivars rarely set seed and are therefore not a problem.

Varieties:

‘Nana’ – a low, rounded evergreen shrub growing to about 45cm (18″) tall and 45cm (18″) wide. It has reddish green compound leaves turning to crimson, ruby-red and scarlet in autumn and winter.

‘Gulf Stream’ – a compact shrub to around 1m (3′) in height. It has bronze to green foliage, turning brilliant red in autumn.

‘Moon Bay’