This shrub forms bamboo-like clumps of upright suckering cain-like stems. The divided leaves are reddish green turning yellowish under cold conditions and the tiny star-shaped white flowers appear during mid summer followed by red berries.

Hardiness zones 5 to 10

Nandina domestica is naturally found from Japan to China and south-east Asia tolerating most well drained moderately fertile moist soils. It prefers a open sunny position but tolerates a semi shade and is drought and frost resistant.

Sacred Bamboo is grown for its foliage and colourful fruit. It is planted in small or Japanese gardens along borders or as a specimen for foliage contrast. It is also used for hedging and screening establishing in 3 to 5 years and is long lived. It is planted in tubs and planter boxes. It is suitable for coastal and cool inland regions and once established it tolerates neglect and partially shaded positions. ID 121

Nandina (năn-DEEN-a) domestica(do-MES-ti-ka)

'Nandina': from nanten, the Japanese vernacular name for this plant; 'domestica': of the home.

Berberidaceae (BER-be-rid-AY-see-ee)