Nandina domestica, also known as heavenly bamboo or simply nandina, has long been admired for its ornamental beauty. Native to eastern Asia—including China, Japan, and India—this evergreen shrub was introduced to the United States in the early 1800s and quickly became a favorite in American landscapes. Its dark green bamboo-like foliage, which can turn a striking crimson in winter, and its clusters of bright red berries make it a visually appealing choice for gardens and decorative plantings.
However, beneath its decorative charm lies a serious ecological threat. In the southeastern United States, nandina has escaped cultivation and spread aggressively into natural areas. Its ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions—from shaded forest edges to full sun—has allowed it to establish itself rapidly. Once rooted, it can grow up to eight feet tall and spread through underground rhizomes, forming dense thickets that crowd out native vegetation. These thickets block sunlight and monopolize soil nutrients, disrupting ecosystems and threatening biodiversity.
While some homeowners plant nandina to provide winter food for birds, the berries pose a hidden danger. They contain cyanogenic compounds, which break down into cyanide when ingested. This makes them toxic to many birds, pets, and even humans. One species particularly at risk is the Cedar Waxwing. These birds migrate south in the winter and feed in large flocks, often consuming berries in great quantities. In 2009, the University of Georgia’s Veterinary Medical School documented a mass poisoning of Cedar Waxwings after they consumed nandina berries. The full report is available through UGA’s website at vet.uga.edu.
To protect local ecosystems and wildlife, it’s best to avoid planting nandina altogether and instead choose native alternatives such as winterberry or deciduous holly. For those who already have heavenly bamboo in their gardens, removal is strongly recommended. Small plants can be pulled by hand, while larger ones may require digging to ensure all rhizomes are removed. If herbicide is used, it should be applied directly to the stump immediately after cutting for the most effective results. Timing is also important—removal should ideally occur before the plant produces berries to prevent seed dispersal and reduce the risk to wildlife. If full removal isn’t possible, cutting off flowers or removing berry clusters before they ripen can help limit the plant’s spread.
During the holiday season, nandina berries are often used in wreaths and garlands. While they may add festive color, they should never be composted at home, as typical compost piles do not reach the high temperatures needed to destroy the seeds. Fortunately, Athens-Clarke County offers a commercial composting program through the ACC Solid Waste Department. Their high-heat composting process renders the seeds non-viable, making it a safe disposal option. Berries can be dropped off at any of the ACC compost program locations. If that’s not an option, the berries should be disposed of in the trash to prevent accidental spreading.
By staying informed and taking proactive steps, we can help protect Georgia’s native habitats from the spread of invasive species like nandina—and preserve the health of our ecosystems for generations to come.
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