Nandina domestica Gulf Stream

Nandina domestica Gulf Stream or Heavenly Bamboo Gulf Stream is a dwarf variety of nandina that reaches max 4 feet tall. This is a carefree evergreen shrub that produces vibrant, ever-changing foliage colours. In the early spring months, the shrub’s foliage emerges a fiery red. Once mature, the leaves take on a bluish-green hue. During the autumn months, when the outdoor temperatures start to cool down, the foliage turns an intensely vibrant red. 
Exceptionally tough, Heavenly Bamboo Gulf Stream tolerates urban planting conditions well.  A dwarf shrub, it only attains a height of about one metre and a width of about one metre, which makes it an ideal choice for foundation plantings or as a front row garden specimen. It also grows well in containers on a porch or patio. 
Heavenly Bamboo Gulf Stream grows in full sunlight or partial shade. A planting location in full sunlight helps the shrub attain its full autumn colour potential. During the summer months, the plant may produce a bevy of white flowers that are followed by bright red berries. However, if the summer months are too cool, it is not uncommon for the shrub not to flower or produce any berries. 
Once established, the Heavenly Bamboo Gulf Stream requires very little care. Occasional pruning to remove broken or dead stems is generally all the plant needs to look pristine. 
Plant in a location with well-draining soil. Once established, the Heavenly Bamboo Gulf Stream can tolerate periods of drought but for optimal autumn colour it benefits from occasional summer time waterings.
The shrub grows well in virtually any soil but prefers ample organic material to flourish. During the summer months, it also enjoys an application of any general purpose fertilizer to encourage new growth. 
Although Nandina domestica Gulf Stream is commonly referred to as a ‘bamboo plant’, it is not related to bamboo. It sports the moniker of bamboo because of the shrub’s lacy foliage which resembles that of bamboo.  
Plant Nandina Gulf Stream anywhere in the garden where you desire bright colours. Virtually trouble-free, the shrub will flourish where many other compact shrubs fail.