January 28, 2025
Nandina domestica ‘Seika’
Raincatchers’ Garden chose Obession Nandinas to co-exist with established Crepe Myrtles that have a darker leaf and white blooms. These two plants provide an attractive, easy to maintain small area within our garden, and provide a colorful treat for the eye throughout their growing season. Our plantings flank our shade pavilion located in the northwest corner of our north garden.
Glowing vibrant red in the spring and summer, Obsession
Nandina is visually appealing, and it is also easy to grow, even for beginners. An upright, compact, dense grower, Obsession offers richer color than ordinary nandinas and is non-invasive.
With its vibrant foliage and compact form, Obsession Nandina adds texture and color to any landscape. It thrives in various growing conditions and adapts to full sun and partial shade. Whether you aim to create a colorful border, enhance a foundation planting, or beautify a patio or balcony, Obsession Nandina is up for the task. Best of all, Obsession Nandina is deer-resistant!
Ideal growing conditions for the Obsession Nandina shrub include well-drained soil and regular watering, especially during hot summer months, though you’ll find the water-wise Obsession to have low water needs once established.
This low-maintenance plant also doesn’t require frequent fertilizing, making it an excellent choice for those with busy schedules. If you wish, feed your Obsession Nandina once per year in early spring.
You can selectively prune to shape your nandina shrub prune in late winter or early spring according to your preference, but Obsession Nandina doesn’t require pruning to stay compact. When pruning, remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing or overcrowded stems.
Bloom/Feature Bright red new growth
Evergreen or Deciduous? Evergreen
Plant Hardiness Hardy to -10°F to 0°F
Key Features Deer Resistant, Disease / Pest Resistance, Water-wise, Winter / Floweing Season
Fall Foliage Color None
Uses Accent, Container, Mass Planting, Slope
Water Needs Medium
Fertilize Yearly in early spring
Pruning None Needed*
Planting Instructions
• Water before planting
• Plant in location that receives partial sun to shade
• Dig hole 2X the width of pot
• Plant 1-2″ above ground soil level, backfill hole with soil
• Water deeply to settle, then add more soil if needed
• Mulch 1-2″ deep around plant, avoiding area closest to stem
*If pruning is desired for shape, remember to cut the offending branches at ground level, not from the crown of the plant.
Information above is from Southern Living Plant Collection.
Jon Maxwell, Dallas County Master Gardener
