Maintenance Landscaping Design

Lemon lime nandina is an evergreen shrub that is native to East Asia. It is a popular ornamental plant in many gardens and parks. The lemon lime nandina has many small, white flowers that blooms in the spring and summer. The plant is also drought tolerant and can grow in full sun or partial shade.

Also known as

• Lemon lime nandina
  
• Nandina domestica
  
• Sacred bamboo
  
• Heavenly bamboo
  
• Bamboo of the gods

Good to Know

• Lemon lime nandina, or Nandina domestica, is a species of flowering plant in the family Berberidaceae, native to eastern Asia.
  
• It is an evergreen shrub growing to 2–3 m (6–8 ft) tall and wide, with trifoliate leaves and terminal clusters of white or pale pink flowers followed by bright red berries.
  
• The berries are toxic to humans but are relished by birds, which spread the seeds in their droppings.
  
• The leaves of lemon lime nandina turn a beautiful red shade in autumn.
  
• The plant is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.
  
• It is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
  
• Lemon lime nandina is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping.
  
• It is also used in bonsai.
  
• The plant can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
  
• Lemon lime nandina can be invasive in some areas.

Related plant:
Miss Lemon Abelia

Growing Steps

1. For lemon lime nandina, first step is to purchase a plant that is already started. You can find these at garden centers or online.
   
2. Next, find a location in your yard that gets full sun to partial shade. Nandina will tolerate most light conditions except for deep shade.
   
3. Once you have chosen a spot, dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball.
   
4. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter if needed.
   
5. Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole.
   
6. Backfill the hole and firm the soil around the base of the plant.
   
7. Water the plant deeply to help it get established.
   
8. Nandina does not require pruning but can be cut back if desired.
   
9. Fertilize in early spring with an organic fertilizer.
   
10. Enjoy your lemon lime nandina for many years to come!

Related plant:
Lemonade Berry

Soil Condition

About soil : Lemon lime nandina prefers well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. The best soil for this plant is one that is moist but not soggy. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, you can improve its drainage by mixing in some sand. This plant is also tolerant of salt, so it can be a good choice for planting near the ocean.

About light

Not too different with other citrus fruits, lemon lime nandina need full sun to produce the maximum number of fruits. The plant grows best in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. In areas with hot summers, afternoon shade may be necessary to prevent the leaves from scorching.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for lemon lime nandina is cool to moderate. They can tolerate some heat, but they will not do well in hot, humid conditions. If you live in an area with hot summers, you should provide some shade for your lemon lime nandina.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% and above. The plant requires well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet conditions. It is best to water the plant in the morning so that the leaves have time to dry before nightfall.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this kind of plant does not require a lot of nutrients. In fact, too much fertilizer can actually damage the root system. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is all that is needed to keep the plant healthy.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping your lemon lime nandina healthy and vigorous. Pruning not only controls the size and shape of the plant, but also encourages new growth. The best time to prune your lemon lime nandina is in late winter or early spring.

The Propagation

Propagation is typically done through softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the lemon lime nandina in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and have several leaves. Cut just below a node, remove the bottom leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-drained potting mix and water well. Place the pot in indirect light and keep the soil moist but not soggy. After a few weeks, the cuttings should start to develop roots and new growth. Once they are established, you can transplant them into individual pots or into your garden.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is fast when they are young. However, they can also grow quite slowly depending on the type of lemon lime nandina. For example, the Chinese types grow much slower than the Japanese or Taiwanese types.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spots, stem canker, and root rot. These problems can be caused by different fungi or bacteria, and they can spread quickly if the plant is already stressed. To prevent these problems, make sure to water your lemon lime nandina regularly and evenly, and avoid overcrowding or injuring the plant.

Growing Tips

• Do not forget to water your lemon lime nandina regularly. It is a fast grower and needs lots of water to stay healthy.
  
• Fertilize your lemon lime nandina every few months to keep it looking its best. A slow-release fertilizer is best.
  
• Place your lemon lime nandina in a spot where it will get plenty of sunlight. It will do best in full sun to partial shade.
  
• prune your lemon lime nandina regularly to encourage new growth and keep it from getting too leggy.
  
• Keep an eye out for pests and diseases. If you see any, treat them immediately.
  
• Bring your lemon lime nandina indoors during the winter months if you live in a cold climate.
  
• Take care when transplanting your lemon lime nandina. It does not like to be moved around.
  
• Be patient when growing your lemon lime nandina

Substitution

• Nandina domestica
  
• Nandina domestica 'compacta'
  
• Nandina domestica 'delecta'
  
• Nandina domestica 'dwarf heavenly bamboo'
  
• Nandina domestica 'fire power'
  
• Nandina domestica 'flirt'
  
• Nandina domestica 'giants'
  
• Nandina domestica 'harbour dwarf'
  
• Nandina domestica 'heavenly bamboo, heavenly bamboo nandina'
  
• Nandina domestica 'mona lisa'
  

Source:
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Nandina domestica 'Lemon Lime'
Lemon | Diseases and Pests, Description, Uses, Propagation
Lemonime lime hybrid | Givaudan Citrus Variety Collection at UCR