Propagating Nandina (Heavenly Bamboo) from Seed and Suckers

Two Reliable Ways to Multiply Nandina

Nandina domestica can be propagated from seed (with stratification) or by dividing suckers from an established plant.

Seed Propagation

1. Collect ripe red berries in autumn; extract and clean seeds.
2. Place seeds in a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag; refrigerate for 90 days.
3. After stratification, sow in individual pots, ¼ inch deep, in moist potting mix.
4. Keep at 70–75°F (21–24°C); germination in 30–60 days.

Sucker Division

• In early spring or autumn, dig around a sucker (shoot arising from the root system) with a generous root ball.
• Sever the connecting root with a sharp spade.
• Replant immediately at the same depth in prepared soil; water well.
• Mulch and keep moist until established.

Reference

Hawaii Cooperative Extension guide: Nandina Propagation.

Both methods work well; suckers give faster, true‑to‑type plants, while seeds offer genetic diversity.