This plant is not a bamboo but a dwarf form of Nandina domestica, which grows naturally in Japan, China and south-east Asia through to eastern India. This little shrub is very tough and hardy – it almost seems to thrive on neglect!
Common name: Dwarf sacred bamboo
Botanic name: Nandina domestica ‘Nana’
Description: 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. It does not produce fruit or flowers.
Best climate: All areas of Australia except for the tropics.
Best look: low hedge mass planting street and industrial landscaping tubs
Good points: wonderful red foliage colour for many months of the year almost unkillable very hardy
Downside: no flowers so popular that it has perhaps been overused
Care: This plant is very easy to grow, and will tolerate harsh conditions.
Getting started: Dwarf sacred bamboo is readily available at nurseries and garden centres. Expect to pay up to $10 for plants in 150mm (6″) pots, and from $12 for 200mm (8″) pots.