Nandina domestica 'Light Red' (Heavenly Bamboo) – Evergreen Shrub (3L Pot)

An upright evergreen with fine bamboo like leaves that open light red and finish the year fiery.

New growth emerges in shades of light red and copper, matures to green through the summer, then flushes back to vivid reds and oranges as the nights cool. The layered, bamboo like leaves give a graceful architectural quality that works as well in a modern courtyard as in a traditional border. It makes a plant of about 60 to 90cm each way, so it fits a mixed bed, a foundation planting or a patio container without taking over.

It is hardy in most of Britain, though cold drying wind can brown the leaf edges and the winter colour is much better in a sunny position. Panicles of small white flowers may open in summer, followed by clusters of bright red berries in autumn and winter that birds will take. Pruning is barely needed. Nandina berries contain cyanogenic compounds and are poisonous to cats, dogs, birds and grazing animals.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Heavenly bamboo
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: 60 to 90cm tall by 60 to 90cm wide
• Growth Habit: Compact, upright evergreen shrub
• Perfect For: Borders, containers, patio displays, foundation planting, mixed beds
• Foliage: Light red to copper new growth, maturing green, with vivid red and orange autumn and winter colour
• Flowering Time: Summer, small white panicles, with red berries from autumn into winter
• Planting Position: Full sun or partial shade, sheltered from cold drying wind, and happy in a container
• Soil Type: Moist but well drained; it takes most soils
• Hardiness: Fully hardy
• Maintenance: Low. Trim lightly in spring only if needed
• Seasonal Interest: Spring, summer, autumn and winter
• Type: Evergreen shrub