Nandina domestica 'Harbour Dwarf'

'Harbour Dwarf' is a cultivar of Nandina domestica, or Heavenly Bamboo, a drought tolerant evergreen shrub, which may develop suckers, reseeds itself readily and occasionally naturalizes.  In rare instances it has established dense stands in forest habitats. 'Harbour Dwarf' is a dwarf form of N. domestica that typically grows to only 2 feet tall, but can spread by rhizomes to 3 to 4 feet wide. The leaves are smaller, narrower and closer together than on the parent plant, typically forming a dense foliage mound that branches to the ground. Fruits are less abundant than with most N. domestica species. In areas where it is evergreen, the leaves will maintain their red color throughout the winter.

Once established, 'Harbour Dwarf' is moderately drought tolerant. The plant can be pruned, but keep in mind that next season's blossoms and fruit appear on new growth.

While the fruit of 'Harbour Dwarf' is less abundant, the leaves and berries may still be toxic to humans, livestock, horses, cats, dogs, and birds such as Cedar Waxwings, which can ingest too many berries in one feeding session. All parts contain cyanide and when consumed in quantity can be toxic.

'Harbour Dwarf' can be a colorful border plant with coppery tints in spring, maturing to green in summer, and turning either reddish-orange or reddish-purple in winter. The plant is considered invasive in some areas. Check local laws and recommendations before adding this plant to your landscape.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No serious insect or disease problems. Foliage may develop chlorosis in alkaline soils.

More information on Nandina domestica.