Sacred Bamboo, Heavenly Bamboo

Nandina domestica

Physical Characteristics

Nandina domestica is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan and India.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Fruit[2]. No further details are given, but another report says that the fruit is poisonous[147]. The fruit is about 10mm in diameter[200]. Young leaves - boiled[177]. The water must be changed at least once during the cooking[105].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Antitussive Astringent Febrifuge Stomachic Tonic The roots and stems are antitussive, astringent, febrifuge, stomachic and tonic. A decoction is used in the treatment of fever in influenza, acute bronchitis, whooping cough, indigestion, acute gastro-enteritis, tooth abscess, pain in the bones and muscles and traumatic injuries. It is especially useful in the treatment of children's coughs. There is a danger that an overdose can cause respiratory paralysis. A decoction of the leaves is tonic. The fruit is febrifuge and tonic. Another report says that it is toxic, so great care should be employed if using it. The root is antirheumatic. Young shoots contain high concentrations of laetrile - up to 20% on a zero moisture basis.

Known Hazards

The fruit is poisonous[147].All parts of the plant contain toxic substances, including hydrocyanic acid and nandenine[218].