About

This compact, bushy, evergreen shrub to 1.2m tall with pinnate leaves divided into lance-shaped leaflets. Conical panicles of small white flowers in summer are sometimes followed by red berries. In autumn andwinter, the foliage turns shades of red and gold. New growth emerges a bronze-orange colour in spring turning green with age but often retaining a red-orange flush.

About the genus

Nandina are erect, evergreen shrubs with pinnate to 3-pinnate leaves composed of lance-shaped leaflets which colour well in autumn, and panicles of small, star-shaped white flowers, followed by bright red fruits

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Rock garden, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, poultry): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

CultivationGrow in a moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered position in full sun
PruningPruning group 9
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and a virus