Nandina domestica

This enchanting plant is not a bamboo but actually a member of the Berberis family. It is certainly one of our favourite informal hardy evergreens. Young leaves are stained red before becoming mid-green and the whole plant takes on autumnal hues for the winter. The mid-summer sprays of white flowers are followed by bright red fruits which often last throughout winter and beyond. It will do best in rich, moist but well-drained soil in a sunny sheltered position.