The nandina has spikes of white flowers in spring which can be cut to hang and dry. If not cut, the flowers become clusters of green berries (the current stage of ours) which gradually turn to red throughout the winter. The clusters of red berries should be removed in late winter before the buds form for the spring blossoms. The flowers or berries can be picked when ever desired and according to how you wish to use them. EP

I agree with EP that the Nandina berries can be picked anytime. The green berries often turn a soft brass color before finally turning red. But I might point out that if harvested at these early stages they will dry green or soft gold, rather than turning red. I like all these colors but if you want red berries, I think you'll have to visit your son again later this fall. ~smile

This is one of my favorite shrubs. Just curious, I checked a couple of sites and it may be hardy in your zone. You might want to take a seedling back with you next time? josh

Thank you both for the helpful info. It's good to know the berries can be dried at different stages-that makes them really useful. Josh, I tried a nandina shrub before, and it died, but after seeing how pretty they are, I'll definitely try again in a different site.

When do you pick Nandina berries to plant them? When red or brown? Do you dry them or plant right away? How about water chestnuts?