Family: Berberidaceae
Common Name: Sacred Bamboo

This single-species genus, whose natural habitat spreads from India through to eastern Asia, is somewhat like bamboo. Popular with landscape gardeners, it makes an effective accent plant or informal hedge, and can also be grown in large tubs. It is frequently used in Japanese-style gardens.

Species

N. domestica, heavenly bamboo, is an upright, evergreen shrub, which grows up to 1.5-2 m (5-6 ft). Long sprays of small, white, summer flowers are followed by red berries. The fern-like foliage may become bronze or red in autumn. There are several cultivars, including 'Harbor Dwarf' with fiery winter foliage, which grows under 1 m and makes excellent ground cover. 'Moyer's Red' has bright red winter foliage.

Cultivation

This hardy, quick-growing shrub can be grown in any soil, either in sun or semi-shade, provided it has sufficient water. Propagate from seed sown in autumn in a garden frame, or from semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

Climate

Zone 7.