Although not Mediterranean in origin, both Nandina, or Heavenly Bamboo, and Duranta are commonly planted in Mediterranean climate gardens. Their cultural requirements, though not identical, are similar enough that they can be grown in many locations. Nandina is hardy to any cold that a Mediterranean winter is likely to produce, although Duranta is for frost-free areas only.

If you live then in a mild winter, frost-free climate, and are familiar with the landscaping qualities of these two beautiful bushes, you may consider planting them in the same shrubbery, as they associate together so well. Indeed, they both have a feature that when combined is possibly unique in the gardening world.

The characteristic in question is the small berry-like fruits that both shrubs produce, adorning the plants in the autumn and early winter. Despite belonging to different botanical families, the berries are virtually identical in size and shape, differing, but combining superbly in color. Nandina domestica berries are bright red, while Duranta’s are a fiery orange.

Warning: There is some controversy as to whether Duranta fruits are poisonous or not.

The effect may not be spectacularly over-powering, but is more of the subtle and gentle kind, because both similarity and contrast work together. This answers simultaneously to two basic demands of good design, namely unity and variety.

The foliage textures perform the same function. While the leaf shape differs between the plants, the leaf size and overall delicate appearance is similar. Nandina domestica leaves, reminiscent of bamboo, divide into leaflets, while those of Duranta erecta are simple. Not all Duranta species have such a delicate leaf texture however, so it’s important to be specific when ordering the plant. In my view, Duranta erecta “Aurea”, with its golden foliage and small leaves is the variety that works best with Heavenly Bamboo.

Another feature worth mentioning is Duranta’s gorgeous purple flowers that bloom throughout the summer and into the autumn. They are small enough to go with Nandina’s delicate foliage, but sufficiently profuse to create a significant effect. Nandina’s white flowers are not especially attractive, but do not remove them or you will loose the berries later on!

To grow the plants successfully, remember that their needs are not identical. In addition to the question of cold, Duranta is less drought resistant than Nandina. It can be grown together with plants of modest requirements, but needs an extra number of drippers in its proximity. While Nandina is definitely a low-maintenance shrub, Duranta, with its rapid growth, should be clipped and lightly pruned through the growing season. If planted next to Nandina, it is necessary to keep its dimensions in check.

These minor drawbacks need not deter the Mediterranean and dry climate gardener from planting Nandina domestica and Duranta erecta in the same bed. The subtle “variety on a theme” effect far outweighs the small attention to detail and extra work that may ensue as a result of growing them together.