A compact, non-invasive nandina with finely divided foliage emerging coppery-red, turning blue-green in summer and flushing brilliant scarlet through cold weather. Rarely fruits, so safe around birds.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1 m H × 80 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Gulf Stream Nandina
Botanically, Nandina domestica 'Gulf Stream' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Berberidaceae family. It reaches around 1 m tall and 80 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Gulf Stream Nandina
Gulf Stream Nandina 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
Gulf Stream Nandina does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 50 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Gulf Stream Nandina 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
Tip-prune Gulf Stream Nandina in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Gulf Stream Nandina in the garden
Gulf Stream Nandina earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. 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 Gulf Stream Nandina with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Gulf Stream Nandina
Plant Sale lists Gulf Stream Nandina as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.