Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Nandina domestica 'Monfar'
Sienna Sunrise Heavenly Bamboo
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Small creamy white star shaped flowers borne in airy clusters
- Foliage color
- Finely textured bright red new growth maturing to deep burgundy to purple red foliage
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Average; moderately drought tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low; remove older canes at the base to encourage fresh growth and maintain a compact habit
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees and other pollinating insects
About this plant
Nandina domestica 'Monfar' produces airy clusters of small white flowers in late spring to early summer, the delicate blooms held above the foliage in loose sprays. The blossoms are followed by bright red berries that persist into winter, adding color through the colder months. Finely divided leaves form soft, bamboo-like foliage that emerges fresh green and gradually develops rich burgundy and crimson tones as temperatures cool, creating changing color through the seasons.
This cultivar traces its heritage to Nandina domestica native to eastern Asia, including China and Japan. In gardens it adds colorful evergreen structure to borders, foundation plantings, and mixed shrub beds where the berries and seasonal foliage provide lasting interest.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Borders · Containers · Foundation Plantings
Companion plants
Daphne · Brunnera · Tiarella · Camellia · Bleeding heart · Hellebore
Design tip
Use ‘Monfar’ in repeated groups through a border or foundation planting, where its compact form can create a consistent lower layer. Pair it with deep green evergreen foliage to emphasize the bright red new growth and the burgundy and crimson tones that develop as temperatures cool.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
