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*Correct and successful spacing is complex and depends on project conditions.
Nandina domestica
Nandina, Domestic
- Heavy berries
- Upright habit
- Winter color
- Category: Trees & Shrubs
- Hardiness Zone: 6a
- Height: 6-8 Feet
- Spread: 3-5 Feet
- Spacing: 3-4 ft
- Bloom Color: White
Domestic Nandina, commonly known as Heavenly Bamboo, is an upright evergreen shrub long used in Texas landscapes for its textured foliage and bright red winter berries. It produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by abundant red fruit in fall and winter. While ornamental and colorful, this standard form is known for heavy berry production and the potential to reseed in favorable conditions, especially in East Texas and more humid regions.
This shrub performs well in full sun to part shade and adapts to a wide range of Texas soils, including moderately alkaline conditions. In Central Texas, it benefits from some afternoon shade and occasional irrigation during extended summer drought. Mature size typically reaches 6–8 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide with an upright, cane-like growth habit. Space plants 3–4 feet apart when planting as a screen or informal hedge. Nandina berries are considered toxic if consumed in quantity, particularly to pets and wildlife, which is an important consideration when selecting planting locations.
Domestic Nandina is best used where height and seasonal berries are desired, such as background plantings, informal screens, or mixed shrub borders. However, for landscapes where invasive spread or heavy fruit production is a concern, dwarf or sterile cultivars may be a more responsible alternative. In Texas wholesale production and specification, it is important to distinguish between standard fruiting types and improved selections with reduced berry set.