Basic Information
Common Name: Compact Nandina
Scientific Name: Nandina domestica ‘Compacta’
Native Habitat: Japan, China, Eastern Asia
History / Discovery / Cultivator
Nandina domestica, commonly known as heavenly bamboo, is native to eastern Asia, specifically Japan, China, and Korea. Despite its common name, it’s not actually bamboo, but a flowering plant in the barberry family (Berberidaceae). The species itself has a long history of cultivation in Asia, valued for its ornamental qualities, including its evergreen foliage, delicate flowers, and bright red berries.
The ‘Compacta’ cultivar is a dwarf or compact form of the species. It was likely developed through selective breeding by horticulturalists aiming to create a smaller, more manageable plant suitable for smaller gardens and containers. The exact origins of the ‘Compacta’ cultivar are somewhat difficult to pinpoint with definitive precision, but it emerged from horticultural efforts focused on selecting naturally occurring variations of Nandina domestica for desirable traits. These traits typically include reduced size, denser foliage, and enhanced coloration.
‘Compacta’ nandina is believed to have been popularized through the nursery trade, starting perhaps in the late 20th century, as the demand for low-maintenance, visually appealing landscape plants increased. Nurseries and breeders recognized the potential of a compact nandina that retained the attractive features of the species but in a more versatile form. It is now widely available in nurseries across the United States and other parts of the world. The cultivar’s popularity stems from its adaptability, aesthetic appeal, and relatively low maintenance requirements, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial landscaping.
The appeal of ‘Compacta’ also lies in its year-round interest. The foliage transitions through various colors, from bright green in spring to reddish-purple in fall and winter. The plant also produces clusters of small, white flowers in the summer, followed by bright red berries that persist throughout the winter, providing visual interest during the dormant season. This multi-seasonal interest, combined with its compact size, makes it an excellent choice for foundation plantings, borders, and container gardens.
Furthermore, ‘Compacta’ nandina’s drought tolerance, once established, contributes to its ease of care. Its resilience to various soil types and environmental conditions adds to its appeal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options. Propagation is typically done through cuttings or seed, but due to the hybrid nature of some cultivars, propagation from cuttings is often preferred to maintain the specific characteristics of the ‘Compacta’ variety.
Ultimately, the ‘Compacta’ Nandina’s success story is rooted in the careful selection and cultivation efforts of horticulturalists who recognized the potential of a smaller, more manageable form of this already beautiful species. Its widespread availability and continued popularity are testaments to its desirable traits and its ability to thrive in a wide range of garden settings.
Plant Care Summary
| Category | General Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade | Best color in full sun; tolerates some shade. |
| Water | Moderate | Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature. |
| Humidity | Moderate | Average humidity is fine; no special requirements. |
| Temp. Range | 10-90°F | Hardy in USDA zones 6-11. |
| Soil Type | Well-draining | Adaptable to various soil types, but prefers well-draining soil. |
| Fertilizer | Slow-release in spring | Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring. |
| Toxicity | Toxic | Berries are toxic if ingested, containing cyanogenic glycosides. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
Compact Nandina exhibits several adaptations that contribute to its survival and ornamental appeal. Its evergreen nature allows it to maintain foliage year-round, providing continuous visual interest. The plant’s ability to tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade, allows it to thrive in diverse environments. Its drought tolerance, once established, is a key adaptation for survival in regions with irregular rainfall. The changing foliage colors throughout the seasons, from green to reddish-purple, are thought to be influenced by temperature and light levels, potentially acting as a form of cold protection and UV resistance. The bright red berries serve to attract birds, which aid in seed dispersal, even though propagation through seed for ‘Compacta’ may not yield true-to-type offspring.
Propagation Methods
‘Compacta’ Nandina can be propagated through several methods:
- Stem Cuttings: This is the most common and reliable method for maintaining the cultivar’s specific characteristics. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer are ideal.
- Seed: While possible, propagation from seed is less common for cultivars like ‘Compacta’ because the offspring may not retain the parent plant’s traits.
- Division: Mature plants can be divided in early spring or fall, separating the root ball into smaller sections.
Toxicology
The berries of Nandina domestica ‘Compacta’ contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when ingested. While the concentration of these compounds is generally considered low, ingestion of the berries, especially in large quantities, can be toxic to humans and pets. Symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. It’s crucial to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. Contact a medical professional or veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected. The foliage also contains these compounds, but at lower concentrations than the berries.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Spider mites
- Scale
- Aphids
Diseases:
- Leaf Spot
- Root Rot (in poorly draining soil)
Other:
- Leaf Yellowing: Often caused by nutrient deficiencies (e.g., iron) or overwatering.
- Poor Color Development: Insufficient sunlight can result in less vibrant fall and winter foliage color.
- Berry Production Issues: Lack of pollination or environmental stress can reduce berry production.
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
Compact Nandina is not considered rare; it is widely available in nurseries and garden centers. However, specific cultivars with unique variegation or growth habits might command higher prices and be less common. Older, well-established specimens can also be less readily available.
Value:
The value of a ‘Compacta’ Nandina specimen depends on several factors:
- Size and Maturity: Larger, more mature plants with established root systems typically have higher value.
- Plant Health: The overall health and vigor of the plant, including the fullness of the foliage and the absence of pests or diseases, significantly impacts its value.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The intensity of fall/winter foliage color and the abundance of berries can increase the plant’s desirability and value.
- Container vs. In-Ground: Container-grown plants, especially those in decorative pots, often command a higher price than bare-root or field-grown specimens.
