A compact mounding shrub grown for fine ferny foliage that turns brilliant red and burgundy in cold weather. Tough and low, it makes a colourful mass planting or low border. Berries are toxic to pets.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 60 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Dwarf Sacred Bamboo
Nandina domestica 'Nana' is a slow-growing shrub in the Berberidaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen, rich in autumn colour and purple-toned foliage. White flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Dwarf Sacred Bamboo
Dwarf Sacred Bamboo suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Dwarf Sacred Bamboo does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 50 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Dwarf Sacred Bamboo is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Dwarf Sacred Bamboo after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Dwarf Sacred Bamboo in the garden
Dwarf Sacred Bamboo earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting and a fast screen or informal hedge. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Dwarf Sacred Bamboo with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Dwarf Sacred Bamboo
Plant Sale lists Dwarf Sacred Bamboo as tube stock and potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.