shrub

Gulf Stream Nandina

Name: Gulf Stream Nandina
Brand: Nandina
Availability: InStock

Nandina domestica 'Gulf Stream'

$23.58

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

42 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

15-25 years

Native To

China, Japan, India (species)

Toxicity

All parts, especially berries, are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact, evergreen shrub known for its fine-textured, bamboo-like foliage that provides year-round color. It maintains a dense, mounding habit without pruning and rarely produces fruit. 'Gulf Stream' is prized for its dynamic foliage color; new growth emerges in shades of bronze and scarlet, matures to blue-green, and then turns fiery orange-red in the cooler temperatures of fall and winter.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

'Gulf Stream' is a superb foliage plant, offering a dynamic color show throughout the year with its red, bronze, blue-green, and orange-red leaves. Its fine, lacy texture provides a soft contrast to broad-leaved plants, and its compact size is perfect for modern gardens.

This is an extremely low-maintenance shrub that requires little to no pruning to maintain its neat, mounding shape. Its adaptability to both sun and shade, as well as its drought tolerance once established, makes it a versatile problem-solver in the landscape.

As a non-fruiting or sparsely fruiting cultivar, 'Gulf Stream' is a more responsible choice than the species, which is invasive in many regions. The small flowers can provide some nectar for pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Nature Hills

In Stock$23.58

Garden Goods Direct

In Stock$36.95

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in sun or shade with good soil drainage.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Gently place the plant in the hole, with the root crown at soil level.
Backfill with the existing soil and water well.
Water regularly for the first few months until established.
Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture.

Pro Tip

For the most vibrant red and orange fall color, plant 'Gulf Stream' in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sun.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide supplemental water during extreme drought.
Allow the plant to develop its natural, dense shape.
Enjoy the changing foliage colors throughout the seasons.
Plant in groups for a dramatic mass planting effect.

Don't

Do not plant in waterlogged or constantly wet soil.
Avoid heavy pruning, which will ruin its natural form.
Do not rely on it for berries; this cultivar is mostly sterile.
Be aware that the species is invasive in some areas; choose sterile cultivars.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful foundation plantingLow-maintenance mass plantingAccent plant for mixed borders

Companion Plants

Loropetalum chinense 'Ruby' Carex oshimensis 'Evergold' Hosta 'Guacamole' Juniperus conferta 'Blue Pacific' Ajuga reptans 'Black Scallop'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gulf Stream Nandina questions

What zones can Gulf Stream Nandina grow in?

Gulf Stream Nandina is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Gulf Stream Nandina deer resistant?

Yes — Gulf Stream Nandina is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Gulf Stream Nandina bloom?

Gulf Stream Nandina typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Gulf Stream Nandina need full sun?

Gulf Stream Nandina does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Gulf Stream Nandina drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Gulf Stream Nandina handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.