Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 2-3 feet
Spread: 2-3 feet
Flower Color: 
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Description:

Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo, particularly varieties like 'Nana' and 'Gulf Stream', is a compact version of the traditional Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina domestica), prized for its smaller stature and colorful foliage. Despite its common name, Heavenly Bamboo is not a true bamboo but an evergreen shrub belonging to the Berberidaceae family, native to Eastern Asia. These dwarf cultivars are ideal for smaller gardens or as a low-maintenance, ornamental addition to mixed borders and containers.

Growing to about 2 to 3 feet in both height and width, Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo forms a dense, bushy mound. The foliage is the standout feature of these cultivars, with leaves that emerge green in spring, then transition through a palette of orange, red, and bronze as temperatures drop in fall and winter, providing year-round interest.

Unlike their taller relatives, dwarf varieties like 'Nana' and 'Gulf Stream' rarely bloom or produce the characteristic red berries associated with larger Nandina domestica plants. This can be a benefit in regions where Nandina is considered invasive, as the lack of flowers and berries minimizes the risk of unwanted spread.

Adapted to full sun to partial shade, Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo thrives in well-draining soil and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from acidic to alkaline, provided they are well-drained. Minimal care is required, making it a great choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance landscaping options.

In landscaping, Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo is often used for its ornamental appeal in rock gardens, as foundation plantings, or in containers where its colorful foliage can be appreciated up close. Its compact size and seasonal color changes make it a versatile and attractive addition to both residential and commercial landscapes.

Overall, Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo is a charming, low-maintenance shrub ideal for adding vibrant color and texture to the garden throughout the year. Its adaptability to a range of growing conditions and ornamental qualities make it a favored choice for gardeners looking to create impactful and sustainable landscapes with minimal effort.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or slightly acidic soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo does not require staking and grows as a compact shrub

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session to ensure deep watering around the roots

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil and the plant begins showing consistent new growth

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce watering to every 3-4 weeks