Heavenly Bamboo is also known as Nandina.

Though not considered a native plant this hardy little shrub has found a way to survive long after a homestead has been abandoned; taken root where twig cuttings have been raked to the side. There are two varieties in the Escambia range; the red berries pictured here and the Yellow Berried Nandina.

Nandina is a handsome broadleaf shrub. Preferred habitat is old homesteads, gardens and wash areas in thin woods. Distribution is throughout the Escambia region.

Leaves are dark green and similar to Asian bamboo; finely textured. In autumn the leaf may turn orange, scarlet, or maroon.

Flowers are small; white, on stalks and clustered from the leaf axi. Flowering occurs in the spring.

Fruit is a bright red berry that matures in autumn.

The hardy plants are highly disease resistant and require little or no maintenance in the garden.

Nandina is considered the symbol of hospitality in Japan.