About
This compact, leafy shrub, to around 80cm high, with a dense, rounded habit and compound leaves divided into narrow leaflets. Produces small white flowers in spring; when pollinated these are followed by persistent round red berries. Leaves are coppery when young, and mature to green, with tints of red, orange and purple in autumn and winter.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen, Semi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, 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, humus-rich soil, in a sheltered position in full sun. May benefit from some light afternoon shade in hot summers. Mulch in autumn; may be deciduous in cold winters. Plant with other cultivars to help ensure berries
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 9 if necessary
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and a virus