Obsession Nandina - 3 Gallon

Transform your landscape with bold, rich color and year-round interest.

The Obsession Nandina is a compact, evergreen shrub that delivers what other nandinas can’t: striking deep red new growth in spring and summer, evolving to rich burgundy in fall and winter. Its dense, naturally mounded habit makes it perfect for hedges, borders, or as a standout specimen. White flowers in late spring attract pollinators, followed by vibrant red berries in winter that add seasonal appeal. Heat-tolerant, deer-resistant, and low-maintenance, Obsession Nandina provides dramatic color and effortless beauty for any garden.

Why You'll Love the Obsession Nandina

Seasonal Color Impact: Bold red foliage in spring and summer, turning deep burgundy in fall and winter, providing multi-season visual interest.

Compact & Versatile: Naturally mounded to 3–4 feet tall and wide, ideal for hedges, borders, or as a vibrant specimen plant.

Low-Maintenance Beauty: Heat- and drought-tolerant once established, deer-resistant, and easy to care for—perfect for busy gardeners who want big impact with minimal effort.

Seasonal Interest: Clusters of small white flowers bloom in late spring, followed by bright red berries in winter, supporting wildlife and adding year-round beauty.

Obsession Nandina Details

• Botanical Name: Nandina domestica ‘Obsession’

• Type: Evergreen shrub

• Mature Size: 3–4 ft tall × 3–4 ft wide

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Light: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-drained, adaptable to a variety of soils

• Water: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6–9

Growing Conditions

Soil Adaptability: Thrives in well-draining soil of various types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Regular watering during establishment promotes strong, healthy growth.

Light Requirements: Full sun encourages the brightest red foliage. Partial shade is tolerated but may reduce color intensity.

Hardiness: Zones 6–9, suitable for most southeastern gardens and coastal areas with mild winters.

Care Instructions

Watering: Maintain even soil moisture during the first growing season. Once established, water during prolonged dry spells. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense new growth. Major pruning can be done in late winter before new growth begins.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage vibrant foliage and berry production.

Landscaping Uses

Versatile Applications: Obsession Nandina is perfect for:

• colorful hedges

• foundation plantings

• specimen plants

• accent planting in mixed borders

• pollinator-friendly garden spaces

Strategic Placement: Plant where its bold red foliage will provide maximum visual impact, such as along walkways, patios, or near entryways. Ideal for mass plantings to create dramatic seasonal color.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far apart should I plant Obsession Nandina for a hedge?
Space plants 3–4 feet apart for a dense hedge, or 4–5 feet apart for individual specimen planting.

When does Obsession Nandina bloom and produce berries?
Clusters of white flowers appear in late spring, followed by bright red berries in winter, offering multi-season interest.

Is Obsession Nandina deer-resistant?
Yes, it is naturally deer-resistant and low-maintenance, making it ideal for residential gardens.

Can I grow Obsession Nandina in containers?
Absolutely! Its compact size and striking foliage make it perfect for patio or garden containers.