Position
- Prefers a position in full sun or partial shade
- A sheltered spot is beneficial, particularly in exposed areas
Hardiness
- Hardy to -10°C (14°F)
- While generally hardy, some winter protection may be beneficial in exceptionally cold areas
Soil Type
- Well-drained soil is essential
- It tolerates a range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions
- Adding organic matter will improve drainage and fertility
Soil PH
- Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0) is ideal, but it can tolerate slightly alkaline conditions
- Grab a soil test kit and ensure the perfect conditions for growth
Height
- Can reach 1-1.5 meters (3-5 feet) tall and wide, though growth rate varies depending on conditions
Seasons of Interest
- Flowering: Summer (June-July), with small, white flowers in panicles
- Foliage: The foliage is the main attraction, with striking variegated leaves that change colour throughout the year
- Young leaves emerge bronze-red, maturing to a dark green with bronze-red margins
- Autumn brings intense red-purple foliage
- The berries are also decorative and persist through winter
Additional Notes
- Regular watering, particularly during dry spells, is essential, especially for younger plants
- Established plants are more drought-tolerant
- Feed lightly in spring with a general-purpose fertiliser
- Pruning is generally not required, but you can remove any dead or damaged stems in late winter or early spring to maintain shape
- Heavy pruning can reduce flowering
- Can be grown in containers, provided the container is large enough and well-drained
- All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested
Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’: The Perfect Heavenly Bamboo for Your Garden
Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ PBR, also known as heavenly bamboo, is a striking and elegant evergreen shrub that brings year-round interest to any garden. Compact and upright in habit, it features vibrant foliage that changes colour through the seasons, small white summer flowers, and red berries in autumn. Its versatility makes it equally at home in borders, beds, or stylish pots on a patio. Easy to grow and low maintenance, it’s a fantastic choice for gardeners of all levels.
To give your Nandina the best start, enrich the planting hole with well-rotted manure and mix in an ericaceous slow-release fertiliser to support healthy foliage development. After planting, mulch with pine bark to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. In pots, use John Innes No. 2 compost and feed with the same ericaceous fertiliser to maintain lush growth.
What Makes Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ Special?
Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ PBR stands out thanks to its dazzling, ever-changing foliage. The compound leaves, made of slender lance-shaped leaflets, start a vivid pink in spring. As the seasons progress, the pink fades to a rich green marbled with creamy white, giving a variegated appearance that looks fresh and uplifting all year round. New shoots emerge in blush-pink tones throughout the growing season, adding extra colour and movement.
In addition to the foliage, ‘Twilight’ offers dainty white flowers in early to midsummer. These lightly fragrant blossoms are followed by clusters of bright red berries in autumn, which persist into winter, providing interest even when other plants are fading. These ornamental features make it an exceptional addition to garden beds, mixed borders, or container displays.
How Big Does Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ Grow?
‘Twilight’ is a compact shrub with an upright form, reaching approximately 120cm in height and around 60cm in spread. Its neat shape makes it ideal for narrow borders, raised beds, or small garden spaces where height is needed without taking up too much ground.
Its vertical structure and restrained size also suit container gardening. Whether placed on a patio, balcony, or doorstep, it delivers consistent colour and architectural appeal in a small footprint.
What Are the Ideal Growing Conditions?
Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ thrives in a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. It’s relatively drought-tolerant once established but appreciates consistent moisture during hot or dry weather. Slightly acidic to neutral soil brings out the best in its foliage.
Enrich the soil with well-rotted manure when planting in garden beds to improve fertility and structure. If the soil is alkaline or heavy clay, amending it with organic matter before planting can enhance drainage and boost long-term plant health.
How to Plant Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’
Planting is simple. Dig a hole twice as wide as the rootball and just as deep. If planting in borders, mix well-rotted manure into the bottom of the hole and around the planting area to provide a rich base. Place the plant at the same level it was growing in the pot, then backfill with soil and water it thoroughly.
After planting, applying a pine bark mulch around the base helps lock in moisture, reduce weed competition, and keep the roots cool in summer. It also suits Nandina’s slightly acidic conditions.
Can I Grow It in Containers?
Yes—this shrub is well-suited to pots and adds structure and year-round colour to patios, balconies, or entrances. Choose a pot with good drainage and use John Innes No. 2 compost, which provides a stable, loamy base rich in nutrients. For best results, incorporate a handful of ericaceous slow-release fertiliser at planting time.
You can place the pot in a sunny, sheltered position and water regularly, especially during dry spells. A layer of pine bark mulch on top of the soil helps retain moisture and complements the plant’s elegant look.
What About Maintenance?
Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ is easy to care for and rarely needs pruning. Light trimming in late winter or early spring will help maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any damaged or frost-bitten shoots to keep the plant tidy.
Each spring, you can top up the mulch and refresh the compost in pots if needed. A dose of ericaceous fertiliser at the start of the growing season will help maintain strong, healthy foliage and ensure vibrant new growth.How Hardy Is It?
‘Twilight’ is fully hardy in most UK gardens, tolerating winter temperatures to around -10°C (14°F). In exposed areas, plant it in a spot sheltered from strong winds to protect the delicate leaves from winter damage.
Container-grown plants may need a little extra care in cold snaps. Move pots to a more protected location, wrap them in fleece, or wrap the pot in bubble wrap to insulate the roots during prolonged frost.
What About Companion Planting?
The variegated foliage of Nandina ‘Twilight’ makes it an excellent foil for darker green or deep red shrubs. It pairs well with Japanese maples, azaleas, pieris, and heucheras—all of which enjoy similar conditions and will benefit from the same pine bark mulch or acid-loving fertilisers.
In mixed borders, ‘Twilight’ is a focal point among softer perennials, ornamental grasses, or flowering shrubs, helping to provide structure and continuity throughout the year.
How to Buy Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ PBR
You’ll find Nandina ‘Twilight’ available at most well-stocked garden centres or specialist nurseries, and it’s also widely sold online. Look for strong, bushy plants in 2L or 3L pots to establish an impact quickly.
Some retailers offer multi-buy discounts or seasonal promotions, so it’s worth checking for deals, particularly if you plan to use several plants in a scheme or border design.
What Makes It Such a Popular Plant?
Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ is popular among gardeners for its year-round interest, compact size, and effortless style. It brings something unique to every season—vivid spring shoots, summer flowers, autumn berries, and evergreen foliage—without demanding constant attention.
Its ability to grow well in both borders and containers makes it highly versatile, and the ease of maintenance only adds to its appeal. For gardeners looking for low-fuss colour and texture, it’s hard to beat.
From Darren’s Patch
I’ve grown a lot of shrubs over the years, but Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ really stands out in my garden. What I love most is how it quietly transforms throughout the seasons—from those pink-tinged new shoots in spring to the frosted white variegation that lights up even the dullest corners. I’ve planted mine in a glazed pot near the patio, using John Innes No. 2 compost and a handful of ericaceous fertiliser, and it’s never looked back. It needs little attention—just the occasional trim and a bit of pine bark mulch—yet delivers so much colour and structure. If you’re after a plant that works hard all year but doesn’t ask for much, ‘Twilight’ is a real gem. I can’t recommend it enough for small gardens or anyone short on time but big on impact.
Key Points to Remember:
- Grows to 120cm by 60cm with an upright, compact habit
- Thrives in full sun to partial shade
- Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil
- Produces small white flowers followed by red berries
- Low maintenance and fully hardy down to -10°C
- Can be grown in pots and garden beds
- Enrich planting holes with well-rotted manure in borders
- Use John Innes No.2 compost and ericaceous fertiliser in pots
- Mulch with pine bark to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Suitable for small spaces, including patios
- Has vibrant foliage that changes colour with age
- Contrasts well against darker green shrubs
- Blooms in summer
Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ PBR is the perfect addition to your garden. Its vibrant, evergreen foliage ensures year-round interest. Buying heavenly bamboo Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ PBR to transform your garden from season to season is simple to care for and stunning to look at. It is perfect for any gardening enthusiast looking for beauty and ease of care.
Check out the RHS article here.
For more information on Shrubs for your garden, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ and why should I add it to my garden?
A: Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’, also known as heavenly bamboo, is a stunning plant with an upright habit and beautiful variegated leaves. It changes colour throughout the seasons, offering shades of bronze and green that can brighten your garden!
Q: How big does Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ get in the garden?
A: This variety typically has a spread of about 120cm, making it an excellent choice for smaller spaces. Its dwarf growing habit means it fits well into any garden setup.
Q: Can I grow Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ in a pot?
A: Absolutely! You can grow it in a 2-litre pot, perfect for patios or smaller gardens. Just ensure you choose a pot that allows for good drainage!
Q: How do I care for my Nandina ‘Twilight’ in my garden?
A: Nandina requires little maintenance, which is ideal for busy gardeners. Just ensure that all plants are delivered in perfect condition for planting, and then you can enjoy the beauty without too much fuss!
Q: What do I do if my Nandina ‘Twilight’ looks unhealthy?
A: If your plant seems off, check for signs of pests or disease. Nandina is generally hardy, but if you notice any issues, try this instead: adjust watering or check the soil quality. Sometimes a little care goes a long way!
Q: Is Nandina domestica ‘Twilight’ suitable for my climate?
A: Yes! Nandina ‘Twilight’ is quite adaptable, but ensure you check the relevant conditions for your area. It’s generally evergreen to semi-evergreen, so that it can handle various climates.
Q: How often should I water my Nandina ‘Twilight’?
A: Water it regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Just ensure it has good drainage to prevent root rot!