Plant of Merit

Published 6:04 pm Tuesday, January 13, 2015

What: Nandina domestica

This is a flowering evergreen shrub that is commonly known as Heavenly Bamboo. Not a bamboo, it is an upright growing shrub that produces white flowers in early summer followed by bright red berries in the autumn. The berries usually last through the winter and are a food source for birds. While nandina was grown for centuries in Chinese and Japanese gardens, it did not reach Europe until 1804 and has been a garden staple ever since. It is a wonderful addition to the winter garden and is a good choice for floral arrangements or winter centerpieces. Nandina is truly a low-care shrub, that needs no pruning or special treatment. It is content just being one of the silent workhorses of the garden.

Sun or shade: Nandina perfoms well in full or part shade.

Size: Typically grows to 6- to 7-feet tall.

See it: At the Evergreen Arboretum &Gardens, 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett www.evergreenarboretum.com, 425-257-8597.

Source: Sandra Schumacher, special for The Herald