shrub

Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo

Nandina domestica 'Jaytee'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

21 inches

Width

27 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Eastern Asia

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested, especially berries.

The Story

Plant Bio

Nandina domestica is an evergreen broadleaf shrub known for its fine-textured, compound leaves that resemble bamboo. New growth is often bronze or reddish, and foliage can take on purplish-red tones in winter. 'Jaytee', sold as Harbor Dwarf, is a compact, non-invasive cultivar that rarely flowers or fruits. It forms a dense, low mound and its foliage turns a striking reddish-bronze in cold weather, making it an excellent groundcover or low border plant.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Harbor Dwarf offers year-round interest with its fine, lacy foliage that shifts from green to bronze and red through the seasons. Its compact, mounding habit is perfect for adding texture to borders, containers, and small spaces without becoming overgrown.

This cultivar is exceptionally low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning and being highly tolerant of drought and urban conditions once established. Its dense growth habit makes it an effective, weed-suppressing groundcover for slopes or large beds.

While this specific cultivar is largely non-fruiting, the species can provide berries for birds like cedar waxwings and robins. It is deer and rabbit resistant, making it a reliable choice in gardens with wildlife pressure.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with well-drained soil and adequate sun.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
Amend heavy clay soil with compost for better drainage.
Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Mulch around the base, keeping it away from the stems.

Pro Tip

For the best winter color, plant in a location that receives full sun during the colder months.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during prolonged dry spells, especially the first year.
Provide good air circulation to minimize disease risk.
Prune selectively to maintain a natural shape.
Plant in slightly acidic soil for best performance.

Don't

Do not plant in soggy, poorly drained locations.
Avoid heavy shearing, which ruins the plant's graceful form.
Don't worry about heavy fertilization; it requires little.
Do not plant invasive fruiting varieties near natural areas.

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

Lacy-textured mass plantingLow foundation hedgeColorful container specimen

Companion Plants

Loropetalum chinense Mahonia eurybracteata 'Soft Caress' Carex oshimensis 'Evergold' Juniperus conferta 'Blue Pacific' Hosta 'Guacamole'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo questions

What zones can Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo grow in?

Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo 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 Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo deer resistant?

Yes — Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo bloom?

Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo 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 Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo need full sun?

Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Harbor Dwarf Heavenly Bamboo drought tolerant?

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