Nandina domestica Magical Daybreak™

Description: Nandina domestica 'Magical Daybreak™', commonly known as Magical Daybreak™ Nandina, is an evergreen shrub prized for its striking, multi-colored foliage and compact growth habit. This cultivar is noted for its bright, vibrant colors and low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for various garden settings.

Flowers:

• Blooms: Produces small, white flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are borne in clusters and add a delicate touch to the plant.
• Fragrance: The flowers are not particularly fragrant.

Fruit:

• Fruit: Small, red berries may follow the flowers in autumn. While ornamental, the fruit is not typically a significant feature of this cultivar.

Foliage:

• Leaves: The foliage is the standout feature, with new growth emerging in shades of bright pink, cream, and green. As the leaves mature, they transition to various shades of green, red, and yellow, providing a dynamic, multi-colored display throughout the year.
• Seasonal Color: Magical Daybreak™ maintains its vibrant foliage color year-round, providing continuous interest.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 60-90 cm tall and wide, forming a compact, mounded habit.
• Habit: Upright and bushy, with a dense, rounded shape that makes it suitable for small gardens, borders, and containers.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in temperate to subtropical climates, making it suitable for various regions in Australia. It prefers mild winters and warm summers.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the brightest foliage color, while partial shade is beneficial in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is crucial. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.

Uses:

• Borders and Edges: Ideal for creating colorful borders and edging in garden beds due to its compact size and vibrant foliage.
• Specimen Plant: Can be used as a standalone specimen plant in small gardens and courtyards, where its bright foliage can be showcased.
• Containers: Suitable for growing in large containers or pots on patios and balconies, providing a splash of color throughout the year.
• Hedges and Screens: Its dense growth makes it suitable for low hedges and privacy screens.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Minimal pruning is required to maintain its shape. Remove any dead or damaged foliage as needed. Pruning in late winter or early spring can help encourage fresh, new growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and maintain vibrant foliage color.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. Monitor for scale insects, aphids, and leaf spot, especially in humid conditions.

Notes:

• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 6-11. In cooler regions of Australia, provide protection from severe frost to prevent damage to young shoots.

Companion Plants: Pair with other colorful foliage plants or flowering perennials to create a dynamic garden display. Good companions include Heuchera, Liriope, and ornamental grasses.

Nandina domestica 'Magical Daybreak™'

Common Name: Magical Daybreak™ Nandina, Heavenly Bamboo

Botanical Name: Nandina domestica 'Magical Daybreak™'

Family: Berberidaceae

Origin: Cultivar selected for its ornamental foliage and vibrant color

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