Nandina Domestica Flirt Heavenly Bamboo Murasaki

Nandina Domestica Flirt also known as Murasaki. Heavenly Bamboo Murasaki or Nandina Murasaki
Prized for its showy foliage, Nandina Domestica is a small shrub native to Japan with year-round interest. Commonly called Heavenly Bamboo, Flirt (or Murasakli) is an evergreen variety that stands out for its red foliage which changes hues throughout the seasons. This explains its alternative name: Nandina Murasaki. Murasaki means purple-red in Japanese. The young growth appears in the spring, a vivid scarlet red maturing to a richer crimson during the summer months. In the autumn and winter, the foliage turns to shades of deep purple and green which perfectly complements shrubs with brighter autumn colour.

The foliage consists of very narrow, lance-like leaves that rather resemble bamboo leaves, hence the common name Heavenly Bamboo. In the spring, Flirt produces small white flowers on small panicles, which can sometimes be followed by red berries.

Height and Spread of Nandina Domestica Flirt
In addition to its striking foliage, it is the naturally compact dome-shaped habit that characterises Nandina Murasaki. This dwarf shrub will reach a maximum height of up to 45 cm, which makes it ideal for small spaces and containers.

How Hardy is Nandina Domestica Flirt
Despite its delicate looks and exotic origins, Heavenly Bamboo Murasaki is fully hardy in the United Kingdom. It can be tender in subzero temperatures, though, so make sure to provide proper protection.

How To Use Nandina Domestica Flirt
Compact and highly-decorative, Nandina Murasaki is a perfect choice for growing in pots. You can use this bright and colourful cultivar to add interest to a patio, rooftop gardens, or a terrace. This also helps with the sheltering in the winter months. Alternatively, grow Nandina Domestica Flirt in the garden, whether en masse as an ornamental ground cover plant or on its own, in mixed shrub borders and flower beds, where it contributes with texture and colour both.

How To Care For Nandina Domestica Flirt
While Nandina Murasaki will tolerate dappled shade, for best result, grow this evergreen shrub in full sun as it promotes more vibrant colouring of the foliage. Will do well in most soils, as long as they are moist but well-drained.