Nandina Moon Bay

Description:
Nandina Moon Bay is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its finely textured foliage and year-round color. This versatile plant is known for its bright green leaves that take on striking red, orange, and golden hues during the cooler months. Its low-maintenance nature and neat, rounded growth habit make it a favorite for borders, hedges, and containers.

Flowers:
In late spring to early summer, Nandina Moon Bay produces small, creamy white flowers in loose clusters. These blooms add a delicate charm and seasonal interest to the shrub.

Foliage:
The foliage is soft, lacy, and finely divided, emerging as a bright green before transitioning to vibrant red, orange, and golden tones in autumn and winter. The colorful foliage provides a dynamic display throughout the seasons.

Fruit:
Bright red berries may form after flowering, adding an additional layer of interest and attracting birds to the garden. While not guaranteed, the berries are an appealing seasonal feature.

Form and Size:
This shrub has a naturally compact, rounded growth habit, reaching a height and width of approximately 60–80 cm. Its tidy size makes it ideal for small gardens or as a low hedge.

Growing Conditions:

• Position: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, with full sun enhancing the intensity of its foliage colors.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soils but is highly adaptable, growing well in sandy, loamy, or even clay soils.
• Watering: Requires regular watering during establishment but is drought-tolerant once mature.
• Climate: Suitable for temperate and subtropical climates. It tolerates frost and performs well in a variety of growing conditions.

Uses:
Perfect for low hedges, garden borders, or mass planting, Nandina Moon Bay is also an excellent choice for container planting on patios or courtyards. Its vibrant foliage provides a striking contrast in mixed plantings or as a standalone feature.

Maintenance:

• Requires minimal pruning but can be trimmed lightly to maintain its shape.
• Fertilize with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
• Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Notes:
Nandina Moon Bay is a non-invasive, sterile cultivar, ensuring it remains contained and manageable in the garden. Its changing foliage color offers year-round beauty and interest with little maintenance required.

Companion Plants:
Combine with evergreen shrubs like Westringia or Loropetalum for contrasting textures. Pair with flowering plants like Salvia or Agapanthus for seasonal color.

Common Name: Moon Bay Nandina
Botanical Name: Nandina domestica 'Moon Bay'
Family: Berberidaceae
Origin: Garden cultivar

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