Nandina domestica gulf stream is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to six feet tall. It has dark green leaves with a bronze hue that emerge from red stems. The leaves are serrated and have a leathery texture. In the spring, small white flowers bloom and give way to bright red berries. The berries are poisonous to humans but are beloved by birds.
Related plant:
Nandina Domestica Richmond
Related plant:
Nandina Berries
About soil condition, Nandina domestica Gulf Stream is good at adapt to different soil condition, including well-drained soil and poor soil. And it is easy to care because it is not demanding on the soil. Nandina domestica Gulf Stream is also soil erosion control plant.
Like the other varieties of Nandina, the domestica Gulf Stream thrives in full sun to partial shade. It grows best in well-drained soil, but is tolerant of a variety of soils so long as they are not waterlogged. This versatile shrub makes an excellent foundation planting, hedge, or specimen plant.
The temperature conditions that are optimal for Nandina domestica growth are those that approximate the average summer temperature in the species' native range, which is between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The Gulf Stream, which is a warm ocean current, helps to moderate the climate in the southeastern United States, making conditions that are ideal for Nandina domestica growth. The plant is also tolerant of brief periods of cooler weather and can even withstand some frost, although extended periods of cold can damage or kill the plant.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40% to 60%. The plant can withstand short periods of low humidity, but will wilt quickly if the air is too dry. If the air is too humid, the leaves will develop brown spots.
About fertilizer, this type of plant grows best with a balanced 10 10 10 fertilizer in the springtime. You can also use a slow release fertilizer or organic compost. Just make sure not to overdo it, as too much fertilizer will burn the roots.
Pruning nandina domestica gulf stream plants is best done in early spring before new growth begins. Cut back last year's growth to about 6 inches (15 cm) above ground level. This will encourage new growth to emerge from the base of the plant. If the plant is overgrown, you can cut it back hard to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) above ground level.
Propagation of Nandina domestica 'Gulf Stream' is best accomplished by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long and taken from new growth. Place the cuttings in a propagation tray or pot filled with a well-drained soil mix. Water the cuttings well and place the tray or pot in a bright, warm location but out of direct sunlight. Rooting will occur in 4-6 weeks. Once the roots are established, transplant the seedlings into individual pots filled with a good quality potting mix. Water well and place in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
Usually, the plant growth rate in a single season is about 1 foot. However, if you are lucky enough to have perfect growing conditions, it is possible for your plant to reach 2 feet in a single season. Perfect growing conditions include plenty of sun, well-drained soil, and consistent watering. If you can provide these conditions, you can expect your nandina domestica gulf stream to reach its full potential growth rate.
Common problems for this kind of plant are pests and diseases. pests include caterpillars, mites, and scale, while diseases include root rot, stem rot, and leaf spot. Pests and diseases can be controlled with proper care and treatment.
Source:
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Nandina domestica 'Gulf Stream'
PlantFacts - Ohio State University
Nandina domestica | Landscape Plants | Oregon State University