Nandina domestica 'Sunset Boulevard'

Flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Berries provide visual winter interest and may attract birds (although berries are mildly toxic to some species).

Deer resistant, as its foliage is typically avoided.

Spring: New growth emerges pinkish-bronze.

Summer: Lush green foliage and white flower clusters.

Fall: Bright red to orange-red foliage and the appearance of berries.

Winter: Persistent red berries and bronze-red foliage tones for year-round color.

– Borders, foundation plantings, mixed shrub beds, containers, mass plantings, and four-season landscapes

Evergreen to semi-evergreen, depending on climate.

Fine, lacy foliage emerges with bronze-pink new growth, transitions to bright emerald green in summer, and transforms to vivid scarlet, orange, and red tones in fall and winter.

Multi-tonal color shifts often occur on the same plant, creating a “sunset” effect.

Small, star-shaped white flowers appear in late spring, arranged in upright clusters above the foliage.

Flowers are lightly fragrant and contrast beautifully against the green leaves.

Select a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained, moderately fertile soil.

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and about the same depth.

Loosen surrounding soil to improve aeration and root establishment.

Mix compost into the backfill soil to boost organic content and drainage.

Set the crown level with the soil surface, backfill gently, and water deeply after planting.

Apply a 2–3 inch mulch layer (pine bark or leaf mulch) around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the stems.

Space plants 3–4 feet apart for mass plantings or hedging.

Requires minimal pruning; naturally grows with a compact, upright form.

If shaping is desired, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Remove any old or damaged stems at ground level to rejuvenate the plant.

Avoid heavy shearing, as this may disrupt its layered, graceful form.

Water regularly during establishment; once established, moderately drought tolerant.

Prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil.

Water deeply during prolonged heat or dry spells to maintain vibrant foliage color.

Prefers full sun to partial shade.

Best color intensity develops in full sun exposure.

Tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates, to prevent leaf scorch.

Produces clusters of small red berries in fall and winter if pollinated.

Berries are ornamental only; not edible and mildly toxic if ingested by humans or pets.

Berries can be used in winter floral arrangements for seasonal décor.

Propagation is best achieved via semi-hardwood cuttings in summer rather than seed.

Feed once annually in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10).

Avoid over-fertilizing, as Nandina performs best in moderately fertile soils.

Mulching with compost annually helps maintain consistent soil nutrients.

Produces small white flowers in late spring to early summer that are pollinated by insects, mainly bees.

When pollinated, clusters of ornamental red berries develop in fall and persist into winter.

Evergreens: Buxus, Ilex crenata, or Juniperus for texture contrast and evergreen structure.

Flowering shrubs: Loropetalum, Spiraea, or Abelia for seasonal bloom pairings.

Perennials: Heuchera, Hosta, Carex, and ornamental grasses to complement its fine foliage.

Design tip: Pairs beautifully with stone or gravel elements in Asian-inspired or contemporary gardens.