Nandina domestica - Sacred Bamboo

Nandina domestica is a bush with an upright habit, appreciated for its light foliage that changes throughout the seasons, going from red to green and finally purple.

Called "Sacred Bamboo", Nandina domestica has evergreen, alternate, tripinnate leaves that are 9 cm (3.5 in) long and have narrow leaflets. Initially reddish when young, the leaves turn dark green during the summer and then become purple in autumn. The flowering occurs in white clusters that are 30 cm (11.8 in) long. The resulting fruits are red-purple berries that are gathered in pendulous clusters and are very decorative.

Native to Japan and China, Sacred Bamboo grows in light, moist, well-drained soil, preferably in part shade, protected from severe cold and drying prevailing winds. Adding ericaceous soil and pruning for balance are both beneficial.

With a height of 2 m (6.6 ft), Nandina domestica is an ideal companion for camellia, hydrangea, mahonia, and works well in hedges. It even works in containers on a terrace combined with periwinkles.