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FirePower Nadina vs. Heavenly Bamboo?

Posted by chueh 7b GA (My Page) on
Sat, Jan 16, 10 at 22:15

I got the knowledge somewhere that firepower nadina and heavenly bamboo are the same. However, to me, they don't look the same. Firepower nadina is more compact and less "bamboo" like, whereas heavenly bamboo looks more bamboo like. My heavenly bamboo always bears berries in winter, whereas none of my firepower nadinas (6) has ever bore any berries.

Would someone explain the differences and the similarities between the two? Thanks


Follow-Up Postings:

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RE: FirePower Nadina vs. Heavenly Bamboo?

  • Posted by jean001 z8aPortland, OR (My Page) on
    Sat, Jan 16, 10 at 22:51

Nandina is the scientific whereas heavenly bamboo is the common name.

'Fire Power" is a named variety of Nandina, thus also heavenly bamboo.


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RE: FirePower Nadina vs. Heavenly Bamboo?

Thank you. So.. jean001, why do I 6 firepower nadinas look different from the heavenly bamboo. My nadinas are very compact, and their stems and branches stay close together. My heavenly bamboo is leggier and thin in stems. Its leaves stay on top portion of the plant. Also my nadinas have never had any berries, unlike my heavenly bamboo.


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RE: FirePower Nadina vs. Heavenly Bamboo?

They look different because this selection ('Firepower') was chosen and bred specifically for its compact form and red winter foliage. It tends to have a coarser texture (larger foliage than the species) and will always look less feathery and delicate than the taller growing forms of nandina. Some of the dwarf selections of nandina - 'Firepower', 'Harbor Dwarf', etc. as well as the threadleaf form - are also not disposed to produce flowers and berries. But regardless of their height, appearance, coloring or production of berries, they are all still varieties of Nandina domestica and all commonly referred to as "heavenly (or sometimes "sacred") bamboo".


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RE: FirePower Nadina vs. Heavenly Bamboo?

I see. Your replies are very clear. Very helpful Thank you


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RE: FirePower Nadina vs. Heavenly Bamboo?

When people refer to 'Heavenly Bamboo', it's usually the most common species that is ubiquitous all over the south. It will self-seed. It is a taller growing species and is really tough. However 'Heavenly Bamboo' can be a nickname for ALL species under the genus 'Nandina'. The special cultivars -- there are many! -- are named, usually patented, and are grown for their unique properties -- dwarf form, compactness, winter color, etc.

I personally love the cultivar 'Firepower' for its winter red foliage and smaller size.

Different Nandinas for different uses.


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RE: FirePower Na(n)dina vs. Heavenly Bamboo?

  • Posted by brandon7 6b (like 7b now) TN (My Page) on
    Mon, Jan 25, 10 at 20:35

"...usually patented..."

Of all the Nandina cultivars out there, I think only about 9 are patented.


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