About
Small white flowers are produced on older wood in early summer; when pollinated these are followed by persistent round red berries. A leafy shrub to around 1.2m high, with slender, upright stems and compound leaves divided into three narrow leaflets. Young leaves are dark red for most of their first year, contrasting with the intense green of older foliage, which also tints red 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
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, 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
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 9 if necessary
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer. As this plant is protected by Plant Breeders' Rights, any propagation should be for personal rather than commercial use
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and a virus