How to Grow Showa Supreme
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Showa Supreme
Nandina domestica 'Showa Supreme'
shrubShowa Supreme is a compact, ornamental evergreen shrub cultivar of heavenly bamboo prized for its vibrant foliage that transitions from bronze-red in spring through green in summer to brilliant red and orange in fall and winter. This non-invasive variety maintains a refined, upright form and produces delicate white flower clusters followed by decorative red berries. It's an excellent choice for foundation plantings, borders, and containers due to its year-round color and compact growth habit.
When should you plant Showa Supreme in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Showa Supreme timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Showa Supreme
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Showa Supreme
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Showa Supreme dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6b-10a; best color development in zones 7-9
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Get my Showa Supreme timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung transplant with initial foliage often bronze or reddish; root system developing
Water regularly to establish roots; apply 2-3 inches of mulch; shelter from strong winds if newly planted; avoid fertilizing first year
Vegetative Growth
Spring through mid-summerPlant develops upright branching structure; foliage deepens to medium green in summer; new growth may have reddish tint
Water moderately; light fertilizing in spring with balanced fertilizer; prune to shape in late winter or early spring if needed; remove dead canes at base
Flowering
Late spring (May-June), 2-3 weeksDelicate panicles of small white or cream-colored flowers appear at branch tips
Maintain consistent moisture; do not over-prune as this removes flower buds; flowers are attractive to pollinators
Fruiting & Color Transition
Late summer through winterSmall red berries develop and persist; foliage begins to shift to orange, crimson, and deep red tones in fall
Reduce watering slightly; berries persist through winter providing winter interest; no fertilizing needed; avoid heavy pruning
Winter Dormancy
December through FebruaryPlant enters semi-dormant state; foliage displays maximum red and orange coloring; berries persist on branches
Minimal watering; no fertilizing; can prune dead wood in late winter; winter color is most striking feature—allow this display
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use miticide if severe; increase humidity; avoid excessive heat stress
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Prune out heavily infested branches; apply horticultural oil spray in dormant season; encourage natural predators
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Remove affected foliage; apply neem oil; maintain plant vigor through proper watering
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and
Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; remove infected leaves; apply fungicide if necessary
Uses
Winter Ornamental Display
HouseholdShowa Supreme's brilliant red and orange foliage provides striking color during the dormant season when most gardens are drab. The persistent berries add additional visual interest and appeal to winter landscapes. [source]
Container & Small Space Gardening
HouseholdThe compact, controlled growth habit makes Showa Supreme ideal for containers, patios, and small gardens where space is limited. Its year-round foliage ensures seasonal appeal even in confined settings. [source]
Foundation & Border Planting
HouseholdThe neat, upright form and moderate size make it perfect for foundation plantings and formal borders. Its changing seasonal colors provide dynamic visual interest without requiring frequent pruning. [source]
Bird Food & Shelter
WildlifeThe persistent red berries are consumed by birds throughout winter, providing essential food when other sources are scarce. The dense evergreen foliage also offers shelter for overwintering birds. [source]
Dried Arrangements & Floral Design
CraftBerry clusters and colorful foliage can be harvested and dried for use in autumn and winter floral arrangements, wreaths, and decorative displays. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not harvested in traditional sense, but berries can be collected for decorative dried arrangements in fall/winter. Cut berry clusters when fully red and dry indoors for arrangements.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Showa Supreme is a compact, non-invasive cultivar specifically bred to address concerns about the invasiveness of standard Nandina domestica in some southern regions, making it an environmentally responsible choice.
- 🌱 The name 'Nandina' comes from the Japanese word 'Nanten,' referring to the plant's use in traditional Japanese gardens and its cultural significance as a symbol of good fortune and protection.
- 🌱 Showa Supreme's dramatic seasonal color transformation is not dependent on cold temperatures like many ornamental plants—it displays vibrant color from fall through winter even in warmer zones, unlike deciduous alternatives.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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