Gulf Stream Nandina. This outstanding cultivar was found as a branch sport of 'Compacta Nana' at Hines Nursery, Houston, TX. It was one of the early patented cultivars of Nandina, whose patent has now expired. It is one of the more compact selections and will ultimately reach a height of 3-3.5'. Even though it will flower, it will not do so until it has reached a good age, and if one expects to get berries, another clone needs to be planted nearby for cross pollination, since Nandina is almost completely self-infertile. Dirr reports that the winter color can vary from year to year, but it is mostly quite good, with a rich bronzy-red. The photos were taken in April near Norfolk, VA, and the color is still quite good. Its thick compact habit is its greatest asset.
Zones 6-9
