BambooBamboos are among the Earth's most beautiful and useful plants, providing outstanding texture and form as screens, hedges, ground-covers and specimens. They enhance and transform gardens into peaceful sanctuaries of light, movement and space, touching our spirits and stirring our souls. Bamboo can beguile and posses. So be forewarned, you may shortly find yourself becoming ensnared with the bamboo mystic. There are over 1000 species of bamboo in 90 geneses that have been described and named. The current rate of discovery suggests many more are still unknown. They come in a staggering variety of sizes and shapes. Some creep along the ground only a few inches tall, others soar freestanding to over 100 feet. Some grow in tight clumps, others in open groves. Some even clamber up trees. The leaves of some species grow only half an inch long, while others reach several feet. Many species have beautifully variegated culms (stems) and leaves. Bamboos come in many colors, shapes and sizes. The diversity of species is perhaps not too surprising when one considers the many environments in which they have evolved. Locally indigenous bamboos are distributed widely throughout Asia, Africa, Australia, and North and South America. They have evolved to fill a variety of ecological niches ranging from tropical lowland to Alpine highland, from rain forest to dry chaparral, and from acid to alkaline soils. There are two main types of bamboo. Clumping (sympodial or pachymorph) types are only genetically capable of expanding a few inches a year and form discrete clumps. Running (monopodial or leptomorph) types spread variously, however with a little knowledge and minimal materials they can be effectively contained. One may either choose non-invasive, clumping varieties or provide adequate containment with running varieties. Information on this page will enable you to grow beautiful, well behaved bamboo. In residential areas, we have found it is safest to contain running types by planting in containers or installing a 30 mil thick rhizome barrier 2 feet deep around the perimeter of the area you want to keep your bamboo. This material works better than cement or metal, is less expensive, and lasts 20- 30 years if installed properly. Consult with us for specific installation instructions. Another way to contain a runner is to water only the area you wish the plant to grow and nowhere else within 10 to 20 feet. Dry soils block expansion. Spreading rhizomes require moisture and grow primarily during the warm summer months when most of the Western States are dry. Yet another barrier is water. Because rhizomes and roots can not tolerate extended periods of saturation, a water filled ditch or stream can effectively block the spread of bamboo. Water need only be present for one season a year. There are some bamboo that do grow in water. Runners require light and heat. Below a certain threshold, which varies from species to species, runners behave as clumpers. In many instances it is easiest to wait and see if it is going to be a problem before taking further action. Many species require 3 years of growth before they begin to spread; after that they can be curbed annually with a shovel. The rhizomes generally are quite shallow, usually within the top 12" of soil, and when young are easy to dig out. If competition with other plants is not a problem, one may simply let the rhizomes go where they wish and harvest the tender new shoots for food from areas where top growth is not wanted.
Few people realize that a significant proportion of Chinese and Asian medicines are extracted from bamboo. Bamboo assumes, for most Asian countries, a spiritual and ritualistic value that goes back thousands of years, aside from being a major source of food and building material. It is an essential ingredient in many cultural and religious ceremonies, whether as bamboo implements such as the Japanese tea whisk, the Shakuhachi flute, or the Eloo flute, or a sacred species such as Bali's Tiying Papah (Gigantochloa nigrociliata), or Kyoto's sacred grove of Phyllostachys bambusoides castilloni. It has been said that if bamboo suddenly disappeared off the face of the earth, about 10% of the people of Asia would be homeless and we would need to replace the approximately two million tons of edible bamboo shoots eaten every year! Recent research has identified the fact that bamboo leaves are very high in anti oxidants, aside from being about 20% crude protein. The shoots are high in vitamin B complex and C5, and many other essential building block ingredients, whilst being low in carbohydrate and protein, an ideal food for diet conscious people. How to Plant There are no hard and fast rules about planting bamboo. Generally a 2' deep and 2' wide hole is sufficient and the addition of compost or other additives is beneficial. Keep in mind that bamboos grow best in rich, moist, well-drained soils. Planting depth is not critical either. Place the plant at approximately the same level as before or a little deeper. After filling in around the plant, soak thoroughly. Through the first year, make sure the plant remains moist but not waterlogged. Do not fertilize for the first 6-12 months. Fertilizer at this point can shock the plant. When to Plant The best time to plant varies from area to area and species to species. In cold winter climates, the best planting time is probably as soon as the ground can be worked in the spring. This gives the plant a longer growing season to get established before the next cold season shuts it down. In hot summer climates the best planting time for cool climate species such as most mountain bamboos, may be the fall. Heat sensitive mountain bamboos may more readily establish themselves after the passing of the hot weather. Soite and Soil Preparation Most bamboos grow best in deep, well drained, fertile soils. If your soil is deficient, the extra time and expense of improving it is usually well worth the effort. Sandy soils may be improved with the addition of organic materials, such as compost, peat, manures, nitrolized sawdust, or bark chips. These materials help retain moisture and also provide nutrition to the plants. Clay soils may be improved with the addition of sand as well as organic materials. These additions promote better drainage, a common problem with clay soils. Most bamboos suffer root damage if submerged for several weeks. Drainage may also be improved by mounding or ditching. Bamboos can be grown well in very shallow soils if adequate fertility and moisture is maintained. Underground barriers may be useful either to contain aggressive spreading varieties or to keep burrowing varmints out. A barrier 2' deep will stymie intrusions in either direction. Planting on very steep slopes or Giant timber varieties may require 3' depth in sandy soils. Bamboos as House Plants Bamboos may be grown indoors if given adequate light and moisture. Indoor bamboos need regular misting to compensate for the lower humidity of most interiors. Use a good potting soil and keep it moist but not constantly wet. If you place a layer of rocks in the bottom of your pot (with holes for drainage), you can place the pot in a pan of water. Another way to keep the humidity up is to have running water nearby such as a small fountain. Slow growth will occur in low light, however, and severe leaf drop may occur as the plant adjusts to less light. If this occurs, new leaves may grow which are more aclimated to the indoor conditions. Fertilization Bamboos respond well to a variety of fertilizers. For plants in the ground, apply in March, May, July, and September. In general we recommend using fertilizers with approximately twice the nitrogen as phosphorus and potassium. Every other year we instead use composted horse manure, which is the bamboo fertilizer of choice in Asia. We spread it about 4" deep in early winter to allow time for nitrogen conversion and use the rest of the year. During manure application years, additional chemical fertilizers are unnecessary. Use other manures if you have them available, but be careful with nitrogen-hot ones, such as chicken manure. Container grown bamboos need regular fertilization. The nutritional content of any potting mix is necessarily limited and will need replenishment. Although most fertilizers are beneficial, for containers we like the slow-release types supplemented with trace minerals. We use 14-12-14, a product similar to Osomocote 14-14-14, with a 6-9 month release rate depending on temperature. Bamboos use a lot of silica. Most soils have ample silica, but if yours is deficient the addition of soluble silica in spring may be beneficial. Potassium Silicate (ground, fly ash from iron smelting), Calcium Silicate (Portland Cement), or other forms of soluble silica may be used. Flowering One of the mysteries of bamboo is how some species are able to flower periodically all over the world at the same time. This was the case with Phyllostachys bambusoides when it flowered during the late 1970's. It did so as it has done every 120 years through recorded bamboo history. Being an important timber variety, records of its flowering go back many centuries. What triggers the flowering is a mystery. We do not have records adequate to predict when most species will flower. While the flowering of some bamboos is periodic, others seem to be triggered by environmental conditions such as drought or stress. Flowering is often fatal but, with extra care and feeding, the mother plant will survive but be smaller. Bamboos belong to the grass family and their flowers look a lot like the flowers of other grasses, usually nothing spectacular. Traditionally botanists describe species on the basis of their flowers. Because the flowering cycle of some species is so long, botanists in the field often have difficulty finding and defining species on the basis of their flowers. The result is multiple names for the same plant and a great deal of confusion. Promising genetic research and international cooperation should help clarify the situation. List of Forms and Species Bamboos are classified by genus, species and form, respectively. There are usually several species in a genus and often several forms of a species. ARUNDINARIA A genus of medium sized, hardy, running bamboos with 3-6 branches at each node and persistent culm sheaths, (the enclosing and protective sheaths of young shoots). No sulcus (groove along length of internode.) Formerly, several Pleioblastus and Yushania were listed as Arundinaria. AAM Arundinaria amabilis or Tonkin Cane, is known for the very high quality of its wood. Culms used to be imported from China for making split bamboo fishing poles. Vast quantities of stakes are still imported for the nursery trade. The species rows best in areas with hot, humid summers where it reaches heights of 50' and 2 ½" in diameter. Best growth with good indirect light. Hardy to 10F. AMA Arundinaria maling - New to the U.S. from India, this clumping bamboo is similar to Yushania anceps, but its shoots and culms have dark red hair. Grows up to 15' tall with culms .75" in diameter. Hardy to 15 degrees, tolerates wide range of lighting. AGI Arundinaria gigantea - Is the only bamboo native to the continental USA. It used to grow widely along river banks in the Southeast and as far north as Ohio and Indiana. It can grow to 20' tall and 1" in diameter. If heavily mulched, will withstand temperatures down to -20 degrees. Part to full sun. AGIT Arundinaria gigantea 'tecta' - A smaller form adapted to growing in wet area. Has air channels in its rhizomes. Grows to 6' tall and ½" across. Same hardiness as the form above. BAMBUSA A genus of tropical and subtropical clumping bamboos from Asia, America and Africa that shoot summer and fall. Bambusas usually have round culms with numerous branches at each node, although one or two usually predominate. The species grows best in full sun. BBE Bambusa beecheyana - A rapid growing, graceful, giant clumping species which is hardy to 20 degrees and can grow to 50' tall and 5" in diameter. Culms arch outward at top. Dark green leaves 1" wide and 5" long. Loves hot summers. In cooler summer climates, grows 20 to 40'. BMP Bambusa multiplex - The typical form of a very useful garden species. All forms share the moniker 'Hedge Bamboo', taking well to pruning and shaping. They tolerate colder temperatures than other Bambusas, being hardy to 13 degrees F. or more. Winter chill eliminates scale and mealy bugs which commonly afflict them in warmer climates. Grows from 15 to 20'. BMPA Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr' - Has attractive gold culms striped with green. The new culms often have a reddish cast. It usually grows 15 to 20'. This is a favorite garden form. BMPAM Bambusa multiplex "Midori Green Alphas" - Clumper good for fast growing hedge up to 15' tall and 1.5" in diameter. Hardy to 13 degrees, preferring half to full day direct sunlight. Culms are a light lime color with dark green stripes, the leaves are light green and ¾" wide and 4 ½"long. BMPF Bambusa multiplex 'Fernleaf' - Has small, evenly spaced leaves resembling a fern. Leaves are smaller on mature plants. Usual height is 10 to 15' but can reach a maximum of 20'. Similar to 'Golden Goddess' and Riviereorum. BMPG Bambusa multiplex 'Golden Goddess' - Similar to 'Fernleaf' but smaller. Usually 8 to 10' tall with ½" culms. Great for low screen. BMPR Bambusa multiplex riviereorum - Also known as "Chinese Goddess Bamboo". Grows 6' tall with delicate, tiny leaves. Excellent for bonsai and low hedges. BMPS Bambusa multiplex 'Silverstripe' - The largest growing form of the species at 45' tall and 1 ½" diameter in tropical climates. Usually 15 to 20' tall. Also the most cold resistant by a couple of degrees. Has white striped leaves which become more prominent if cultivated in a container. BMPT Bambusa multiplex "Tiny Fern" - Wonderful bamboo for small hedges (3' max. ht.), or bonsai. Clusters of small light grayish-green pointed leaves. Culms light green to brown. Clumper hardy to 13 degrees preferring half to full day sun. BOL Bambusa oldhamii - A giant timber bamboo growing 55' tall and 4 inches in diameter in Southern California and 20' to 30' up North. Long known for its large, clumping, vertical growth habit and tasty shoots. Hardy to 20 degrees. BTE Bambusa textilis - A good looking, upright bamboo which grows 20 to 30' tall in Northern California and taller in the South. Excellent for either screening or free standing ornamental. Hardy to 16 degrees. BTU Bambusa tuldoides - Also known as PUNTING POLE BAMBOO from its Asian heritage of poling boats. Culms are thick walled and straight, making them useful for many purposes. Under ideal conditions it can grow to 55' tall and 2 ¼" in diameter. Olive green, shiny, upright and full foliage from bottom to top when mature. Hardy to 18 degrees. BVE Bambusa ventricosa - Also known as BUDDHA BELLY BAMBOO because culms develop characteristic internodal swelling when subject to consistent stress, such as lack of water. In a humid, warm climates, it can grow 55' tall and 2 ¼" in diameter. Cold hardy to 18 degrees. Makes interesting subject for bonsai. BVUV Bambusa vulgaris vittata - An exceptionally attractive plant with vivid green stripes on bright yellow to yellow orange culms and branches. It grows to 60' tall and 4" in diameter, but requires a tropical climate, being hardy to only about 30 degrees. Often grown in commercial atriums or as a house plant. For indoor growing, it requires at least 2 hours direct sunlight. BASHANIA A genus of two species of running bamboos from China. BWF Bashania fargesia - A new introduction with dense, vertical growth good for screening. Attractive dark green leaves an inch or so wide by 6-8" long grace 15'-20' blue green culms. Hardy to 0 degrees. Full sun to part shade. Sometimes classified as Arundinaria Fargesii. BRACHYSTACHYUM A one species genus from China similar to Semiarundinaria. BXD Brachystachyum densiflorum - A runner which grows to 6' tall, has swollen nodes, and is hardy to at least 5 degrees. Full sun to part shade. It was introduced to the USA in 1986 and not much is known about it. Sometimes classified as Arundinaria densiflora or Bashiana densiflora. CHIMONOBAMBUSA A genus of medium sized bamboos from the Himalayas, China and Japan, which shoot fall and winter, and is difficult to propagate. Many branches per node. Thin culm sheaths fall away within a year. Those listed below are aggressive runners. CBM Chimonobambusa marmorea,
also known as MARBLED BAMBOO because its new shoots are marbled with
cream and purple, grows 6 to 8'
tall and ¼ to ½" in diameter. Stripping the leaves
from the lower two thirds of the culms will produce red
color if in full sun. Excellent for erosion control or hedges. Masses
of leaves form on short branches. Makes an attractive CBMV Chimonobambusa marmorea variegata - Same as CBM except leaves are occasionally striped with narrow white lines. They also develop a showy, bright red color with sun exposure. CBQ Chimonobambusa quadrangularis - Also known as SQUARE BAMBOO, has culms whose opposite sides are flat. Culms are rough to the touch and have large nodes. Does well in part shade where leaves grow dark green and hang down in attractive tiers. Leaves exposed to bright sun are more yellow. Graceful foliage creates a waterfall shape or, if topped, an umbrella-like form. Can grow 25' tall and 1 ½" in diameter. Hardy to 10 F. CBQI Chimonobambusa quadrangularis Inversa - Green culms w/ yellow stripe. Otherwise similar to CBQ. CBQS Chimonobambusa quadrangularis Suou - Highly ornamental bamboo from China which is good for screening as well. Similar to CBQ but a clumper with green stripes, and the new shoots are occasionally pink. Will grow indoors with direct light and misting. CHUSQUEA This genus comes from Central and South America where there are about 90 species. Uniquely, Chusqueas have solid culms and exhibit a whorl of multiple branches at each node, giving them a distinctive look. Leaves are usually small and narrow. Most are clumpers with gracefully trailing culms and branches. They typically develop multitudes of small branches with delicate leaves and have solid culms. While highly ornamental, most have little heat tolerance and are difficult to establish. Most need acid soil. Most are newly introduced to the US and hard to find. CHBR Chusquea sp. "breviglumis" - Appears to tolerate the widest temperature extremes of all Chusquea, from approximately 10 to 100 degrees F. This species was collected from Chile's Central Valley where it grows to 16'. Three major branches plus many smaller ones develop at the nodes. Masses of dark green leaves bend culms and branches. CHCI Chusquea circinata - Beautiful tropical bamboo with long narrow leaves (¼ " x 3 ½"). Culms grow up to 20' and are smokey dark with full sun and light brown with less sun. Feathery weeping look early in life. As plant gets older, becomes more upright and dense. Requires good drainage and can not tolerate anything colder than 20 degrees. CHCO Chusquea coronalis - A very beautiful clumper from Central America with numerous branchlets and tiny leaves circling each node on trailing branches. Not terribly cold resistant at 25 degrees. Makes a spectacular container plant which may be grown indoors. Reaches 10' freestanding on ¾" culms. CHCQ Chusquea culeou 61-11, also know as CHILEAN WEEPING - A superlative, hardy ornamental long cultivated in England but new to the USA. Mature plants look like giant clumps of feathers. It grows 20' tall at high elevations in Southern Chile, and will thrive between 0 and 90 F. CHFO Chusquea foliosa - An outstanding clumping ornamental bamboo with very narrow, long leaves on long slender branches. It needs cool summers and moderate winters not below 20 F. The variety was collected at high elevations in Southern Mexico from the State of Chiapas in 1985. CHMB Chusquea macrostachya - Grows in the mountains of Southern Chile and will probably tolerate temperatures between 0 and 100 degrees. It reaches heights of 20' with culms and branches up to 1 ½" in diameter. A beautiful clumping ornamental with small leaves and arching branches.. CHNI Chusquea sp. "nigricans" - May be a dwarf form of culeou. It grows from 6 to 10', has stiffly vertical leaves and branches, and thrives between 0 and 90 degrees. It is one of the few bamboos which can grow directly in water. Needs acid soil to look its best. CHUL Chusquea uliginosa - Grows at low elevation in wet areas of Southern Chile where it is capable of clambering 30 feet high or more on neighboring trees. A unique and pleasing specimen that can be maintained with annual pruning. Attractive, dark green leaves festoon strongly arched culms and branches. Survives between 10 to 100 degrees. CHCUM Chusquea cumingii - One of the shortest Chusqueas (3-5'). Leaves are blueish, short, pointed. Clumping type, hardy to 10 degrees, and likes half to full day sun. CHSU Chusquea sulcata - Decorative open clumper with umbrella form, and deep green color. Culms are slightly zig-zagged and narrower at the internode than the node. Fine thin leaves. Only tolerates temperatures down to 28 degrees, and likes half to full day sun. Grows 8-15' tall. CHVA Chusquea valdiviensis - Is the most robust of Chilean bamboos reaching heights of 80' while clambering up trees and draping them with curtains of foliage. Culms grow to 1 ½" in diameter. Only attractive on a large scale. Its temperature range is 10 to 100 degrees. DREPANOSTACHYUM A genus of beautiful, medium sized, clumping, Himalayan bamboos. Culms arch in upper part and many thin branches half encircle each node. Sheath blades point downward. DRF Drepanostachyum falcatum "Blue" - Highly decorative blue culms with dark purple node rings which grow up to 20' tall. Blueish green leaves 1"x 5". Clumper with straight upright form. Tolerates down to 15 degrees and does best in good indirect light all day or morning sun only. DRH Drepanostachyum hookerianum - Has surreal colors striped on its culms, ranging from blue and magenta to green and yellow. Masses of leaves grow on 30' culms 2" thick with long, slender, arching branches. Hardy to 20 degrees. Full to part sun. DRK Drepanostachyum khasianum - Very similar to DRF but with blue-green culms. It also tolerates up to full day sun, and only grows to 12 feet tall. FARGESIA A genus of very hardy, small to medium sized clumping, mountain bamboos from the alpine conifer forests of West and southwest China. FAF Fargesia fungosa - Ornamental bamboo that can be used as a screen or centerpiece. Likes shade to half-day sun, and culms will turn chocolate-red and shiny with more light. This clumper grows to 14', and is hardy to 0 degrees. Light green leaves (½" x 3-5") which grow in small clusters at each node. FAM Fargesia muralie - Also known as Thamnocalamus spathaceous or UMBRELLA BAMBOO, is an attractive, clumping ornamental frequently used in European gardens. It is hardy to -20 degrees, likes shade, and grows to 15'. It is found in China at elevations of 10,000 feet where it is an important food for the Giant Pandas. FAN Fargesia nitida - Formerly
known as Sinarundinaria nitida is a choice ornamental. It grows to
12 feet tall with outward arching
slender branches and is exceptionally cold resistant, withstanding
-20 degrees. Nitida is probably the most popular bamboo
in northern Europe. Dark purplish culms are covered with a bluish-white
powder when young. Leaves are delicate and FANA Fargesia anceps - Reddish-brown culms and the smallest leaves (¼" wide x 1 ¼" long) of the Fargesias. Tolerates all day indirect to ½ day (morning) sun. FANB Fargesia nitida "de Belder" - A fountain bamboo is similar to FAN but tolerates more sun. In full sun culms turn reddish with white powder. FANE Fargesia nitida "Eisenach" - A weeping form that grows 10-12 feet tall and ½" thick. Graceful dark chocolate colored canes and long narrow leaves. Hardy to -20. 2-4 sunshine. GELIDOCALAMUS A genus of small to medium sized, running bamboos botanically similar to Indocalamus and Chimonobambusa. GEG Gelidocalamus fangianus - A new introduction from West Sichuan, China where it is a primary food of the Giant Panda. Other than knowing it grows under conifers to 10' and is hardy to -5 degrees, little is known about it. HIBANOBAMBUSA A probable hybrid of Ph. nigra `Henon' and Sasa veitchii f. tyukgokensis from Mt. Hiba on Honshu, Japan. Both forms of the plant are aggressive runners with single branches and wide leaves. The leaves are up to 10" long and 1 ½" wide. The species is cold hardy to -5 degrees and grow about 15' tall and make good container plants. Best in morning sun or filtered light. HBT Hibanobambusa tranquilans, is the all green form. HBTS Hibanobambusa tranquilans 'Shiroshima' - An attractive variegated form with vivid green stripes on white and yellow. HIMALAYACALAMUS A genus from Nepal to the north-eastern most part of India at elevations of 2,250 to 2,750 m. HCF Himalayacalamus falconeri - A tight clumper with slender, bright green culms which bend under the weight of abundant, small, narrow leaves. It grows to 15', does best in part shade, and is hardy to 17 degrees. It is an outstandingly beautiful ornamental. HCI Himalayacalamus "Intermedia" - Himalayan clumping bamboo with straight upright culms of grey-green color. Foliage is light green, very dense and grows up to 15' tall. Good for visual screen and sound barrier. Hardy to 10 degrees and likes half to full day direct sunlight. INDOCALAMUS A genus of small Asian running bamboos which shoot in spring and are relatively hardy. Most have extremely large tough leaves and tolerate low light levels. INLA Indocalamus latifolius - Has leaves 2" wide by 1' long with a somewhat stiff and spiky appearance. It grows 6' tall and is hardy to 0 degrees. Prefers shade. A recent import. INLO Indocalamus longiaurita - Has attractive, dark green leaves on upright, solid culms. Leaves are up to 1 ¼" wide by 7" long. Good house or garden plant. Tolerates a wide range of light exposure. Hardy to 0. INT Indocalamus tessellatus or "Sasa tessellata" - Has the largest leaves of any bamboo in cultivation, up to 2' long by 4" wide. It tolerates lower light levels than any other bamboo. Planted in shady places it forms an attractive, 3' tall, mounded ground cover. Occasionally it grows to 7'. This tropical looking plant, hardy to -10 degrees, also makes a good house plant. INDOSASA ISC Indosasa crassifolia - Decorative bamboo similar to INLO but has smaller leaves. Grows 15' tall, 1" in diameter, prefers indirect sun all day to direct sun for half day. NEOMICROCALAMUS NMC Neomicrocalamus microphyllus - This Tibetan bamboo is ornamental and tropical looking, with dark smokey culms which fade to red and delicate purple-green leaves. Grows to 20' tall and ½" in diameter, can only tolerate temperatures down to 15 degrees, and likes partial to full sun. OTATEA A genus of medium sized tropical Mexican bamboos. OAAZ Otatea acuminata aztecorum, or MEXICAN WEEPING BAMBOO is a beautiful, drought resistant, clumping ornamental from the Chaparral of Mexico. Masses of long narrow leaves hang in graceful plumes, 15 to 20' tall. The plant requires very good drainage, tolerates alkalinity, and is hardy to 20 degrees. Plant in full sun to light shade. PHYLLOSTACHYS A genus of medium to giant
runners with distinct grooves above paired branches. The heaviest
shooting occurs in spring. All species
have edible shoots. Nearly all can thrive with hot summers and cold
winters. Most come from China. All grow best in full
sun but can take some shade. The wide range of conditions under which
this genus can be grown plus its utility and beauty PHAH Phyllostachys arcana - Great bamboo for erosion control, visual screening and edible shoots. Runner with shiny green culms that are occasionally zig-zagged at the base. Reaches up to 27' tall, with dark green leaves 5/8" x 4". Hardy to 0 degrees and does best with half to full day sun. PHAJ Phyllostachys aurea,
or GOLDEN BAMBOO is the most common bamboo in much of the U.S. It
is drought resistant, easy to grow,
and great for screens, hedges, and in containers. Its usual height
is between 10 and 15' but it can reach 30' and it is
hardy to 0 degrees. Some culms have characteristic short, bulging
nodes at the base. Because it can spread aggressively it PHAK Phyllostachys aurea albovariegata - Same as PHAJ but with white stripes on the leaves. Appears to be going into flowering. PHAM Phyllostachys aurea flavascens inversa - Same as PHAK but with ornamental yellow stripe on the culms. PHAO Phyllostachys aurea koi - Same as PHAM but with a green stripe on the culms and occasional white stripes on the leaves. PHAQ Phyllostachys aureosulcata, or CROOKSTEM BAMBOO, has a yellow, vertical stripe on the culm groove (sulcas). It frequently grows with a pronounced zig-zag at the base. Maximum height near Prattsville, Alabama is 45' and 3" in diameter. In Northern California it usually grows from 15 to 20'. This exceptionally cold tolerant bamboo withstands -15 degrees. It is a vigorous runner with dark green leaves and tasty shoots. PHAR Phyllostachys aureosulcata 'Alata' - Same as PHAO but without the yellow stripe. PHAS Phyllostachys aureosulcata spectabilis - A very attractive recent introduction with green stripes on bright yellow culms. Rare. PHB Phyllostachys bambusoides, GIANT JAPANESE TIMBER BAMBOO, or MADAKE is the largest reliable, easy-to-grow, temperate climate giant bamboo. It can grow 72' tall and 6" in diameter and produces excellent wood. Before flowering 20 years ago, it was the predominate bamboo cultivated in Japan. Next flowering and die back not due for a 100 years. Hardy to 5. PHBA Phyllostachys bambusoides holochyrsa "All Gold" - Decorative yellow culm with a few thin green stripes, and green leaves with a few white stripes. Grows up to 25' tall and 1 ½" in diameter. Hardy to 0 degrees and does well in indirect light all day or half-day morning sun. PHBC Phyllostachys bambusoides Castillonis - This form, a mutation of PHB, has yellow culms with light green stripes in the internodal canals, and occasionally a few bright green stripes elsewhere. Leaves are green with a few bright yellow stripes. It grows up to 35' tall and 2" in diameter, is hardy to 0 degrees and likes half to full day direct sunlight. PHBI Phyllostachys bambusoides castillon-inversa - Good ornamental hedge or centerpiece, this form is similar to PHBC but has culms with a yellow core and green surface. PHBM Phyllostachys bambusoides marliacea, an unusual distorted form with many grooves running lengthwise around the culms. Culms can grow at least 20' tall and 2" in diameter. PHBR Phyllostachys bambusoides 'Slender Crookstem' - Smaller than the typical form with culms that often show a marked zig-zag at lower internodes. Grows 40-65' tall and 3-5" in diameter. PHBT Phyllostachys bambusoides Tanakae - This timber type bamboo grows up to 72' tall and 6" in diameter in its ideal native environment. Hardy to 0 degrees, and does best with full day direct sun or half day afternoon sun. Leaves are green and culms are green with one black spot or occasional black freckles per internode. PHBY Phyllostachys bissetii - A small, attractive species with dark green leaves. Exceptionally hardy, withstanding temperatures to -15 degrees. If mulched, the rhizomes alone can probably withstand -30 degrees and shoot again in the spring. Grows to 23' tall and 1" in diameter. Vigorous runner. PHDEC Phyllostachys decora - Grows to about 20' tall and 1 ¼" in diameter. Hardy to -5 degrees. In China it is called the Beautiful Bamboo. PHDUL Phyllostachys dulcis - Rapid growing giant bamboo with tasty shoots. Arching culms grow to 40' and 3" in diameter. Cold hardy to 0 degrees or more. PHG Phyllostachys glauca - In China grows to 70' tall and 5" in diameter. It is a vigorous runner, hardy to -10 degrees. The young culms have a distinctive white powder. Excellent tolerance for both drought and alkalinity. PHHP Phyllostachys heterocycla
pubescens or "Moso", is the largest growing species of the
genus and considered by many to be
the most beautiful. Moso is the most cultivated bamboo in China and
Japan. It produces especially tasty shoots in tropical environments.
Reaching up to 80' tall and 8" in diameter, with tops arch gracefully
with masses of small leaves, Moso is difficult PHHU Phyllostachys humilis - Great for erosion control or as a hedge, this vertical bamboo with small leaves is distinctive because of its short culm internodes (4-6"), and the first few internodes of each branch are hollow. Quick grower, 15-20' tall, hardy to 0 degrees, likes half to full day sun. Leaves and culms are olive green. PHI Phyllostachys iridescens - Beautiful dark green leaves and culms, and useful as a visual screen and wind break. Grows up to 36' tall and 2 3/4" in diameter in half-day afternoon sun or all day full sun. Hardy to 0 degrees. PHNF Phyllostachys nigra or BLACK BAMBOO - One of the most popular bamboos, both for the black culms and the plumed masses of small leaves. The culms come up green and turn black during the first year or two. Generally it grows about 15 to 20' tall and 1 ½" in diameter. It is sensitive to salts and minerals in the water and soil which readily result in leaf tip burn. PHNFF Phyllostachys nigra `Dikokuchiku' or GIANT BLACK BAMBOO - Similar to typical Black Bamboo except that this clone has reached 57' tall and 3.3" in diameter. The parent grove is located in Folsom, California and is growing in well irrigated, deep, sandy loam. Summer temperatures are very hot (above 100 degrees for weeks on end). It does well in 80 degree summer heat as well. PHNG Phyllostachys nigra 'Bory' - also known as LEOPARD BAMBOO, is a large growing relative of Black Bamboo, that instead of turning black, develops large decorative black spots on 3" diameter culms. It grows up to 50' tall and takes temperatures down to -5 degrees. As with the other forms of Ph. nigra, 'Bory' has very beautiful structure and foliage. Excellent tolerance for summer heat, winter cold, and drought. PHNH Phyllostachys nigra "Hale" - This type of black bamboo shows its color sooner than any other, turning charcoal in color. Grows to 18-30' tall, is hardy to -5 degrees and needs half to full day sun. Good in pots or in the ground as a hedge. PHNI Phyllostachys nigra 'Henon' - An all green form of Black Bamboo which can grow 60' tall and 5" in diameter. Outstandingly beautiful foliage and craftsmen quality wood. Hardy to -5 degrees. Has noteworthy drought resistance. Grows well under a wide range of conditions. PHNM Phyllostachys nigra 'Megurochiku' - Grows and looks very similar to 'Henon' but with the addition of a brown or purplish-black stripe in the grooves on the culms. Also drought resistant. Hardy to -5. PHNT Phyllostachys nigra tosaensis - A form of nigra with only one or two black spots per node. Fast growing and good for hedges, erosion control or as an ornamental plant. Grows up to 30' tall and 1 ½" in diameter, tolerates down to 0 degrees and likes half day afternoon sun to full day sun. PHNU Phyllostachys nuda - Reputed to be the most cold hardy species of the genus, tolerating -20 degrees. It forms attractive, dark green groves up to 34' tall with culms 1 ¾" in diameter. P. nuda gets it's name from its ability to become deciduous with extreme cold. PHPL Phyllostachys platyglossa - This fast growing bamboo is a good wind break and visual screen. New shoots are red, growing up to 26' tall and1 ½" in diameter and then turn green. Aggressive runner, so containment is advised. PHPR Phyllostachys purpurata - One of the smaller Phyllostachys, growing to 18' tall and ¾" in diameter. Slender culms tend to zig-zag a little and bend to the ground under the weight of rain or in a strong wind. Hardy to 0 degrees. PHPS Phyllostachys purpurata 'Solid Stem' - Grows to 18' tall and ¾" in diameter. It has nearly solid culms and is otherwise similar to the form above. PHPT Phyllostachys purpurata 'Straight Stem' - Grows larger, up to 33' and 1 ½" in diameter and with less zig-zag than the two above. It is also hardier, going down to -5 degrees. PHR Phyllostachys rubromarginata - Another exceptionally cold tolerant species withstanding -15 degrees. It behaves as a clumper in cool summer climates and a runner in warm ones. Grows to 55' tall and 3 ½" in diameter and is noted for its good quality wood with long internodes and edible shoots. Tolerates alkalinity. PHVC Phyllostachys violascens - Grows to 50' and 3" in diameter with unique, purple to brown stripes on the culms. Vigorous grower. Hardy to 0 degrees. PHVG Phyllostachys viridi glaucescens - Produces straight culms of excellent quality wood and superior shoots for eating. Hardy to -5 degrees. Grows 35' tall on 2" culms. PHVR Phyllostachys viridis
'Robert Young' - A handsome variegated form with occasional green
stripes on vivid yellow culms. Grows
40' tall and 3" in diameter. Wood is of high quality and shoots
are tasty. It is characterized by the grainy quality of the culm
surface which can be felt by running the edge of your thumbnail up
and down the culm surface. It is hardy to -5 degrees PHVX Phyllostachys vivax - Probably a form of Ph. bambusoides. It is hardy to -5 degrees, grows up to 70 feet tall and 5 inches in diameter. Best giant for cool summer areas along with Ph. dulcis and the Ph. nigra forms. PLEIOBLASTUS A genus of small and medium
size running bamboos with numerous branches at each node and culm
leaves which stay attached. They
make good ground covers, hedges, and container specimens; and benefit
from an annual winter clipping to keep them
low, uniform, and attractive. In cold climates they may be grown herbaciously
by mulching heavily during the winter and PLAK Pleioblastus akebono - A dwarf Japanese bamboo up to 2' tall that has unique white leaf tips with a brushed green effect toward the stem. The effect is most pronounced on new spring growth. Toward fall the leaves become greener. The name means `color of the dawn sky'. Slow growing, non-invasive runner. Hardy to 10 degrees. Likes shade and humidity. PLAR Pleioblastus argenteostriatus - A 3' tall, running dwarf with white striped leaves. Shade loving but can withstand some sun. Makes a nice ground cover if pruned annually. Hardy to 10 degrees and 20 more if heavily mulched. PLCA - Pleioblastus chino angustifolius - Ground cover type similar to PLCW, but less variegation on the leaves. Grows up to 2' tall and does well in light shade to full sun. Hardy to 10 degrees. Mowing bi-annually in late winter or early spring is recommended (new growth will come back in 1-2 months). PLCE Pleioblastus chino elegantissimus - Forms attractive, mounded, 6' plants with curved, subtly striped leaves. Sun or shade. Hardy to 10 degrees. PLCK Pleioblastus chino kimmei - This decorative bamboo has attractive green leaves with occasional golden stripes. The culms are golden with a slightly spiraling green stripe. In full sun the culms turn scarlet. New shoots appear scarlet at first but turn golden after a few months. Grows 8'-12' tall and can tolerate down to -5 degrees. PLCM Pleioblastus chino murakamianus - A highly variegated form with stripes (average proportion is ¼ green to ¾ white). It grows to 10' or less if pruned annually. Likes filtered light. PLCW Pleioblastus chino vaginata variegata - Narrower leaves and variegation intermediate between the two forms above. Grows to 6 feet tall and handles both sun and shade. Vigorous, attractive plant. PLD Pleioblastus distichus - A Japanese dwarf with tiny, fern like leaves arranged in even rows. Good ground cover or for bonsai. May be pruned or mowed to maintain even, dense growth. Hardy to 5. PLFO Pleioblastus fortunei (Arundinaria variegata), or DWARF WHITE STRIPE BAMBOO - An outstanding, attractive, dwarf, variegated bamboo. Foliage has an upright spiky appearance that maintains well during the winter. Grows 2' to 4'. Is hardy to -10 degrees. Prefers part shade but can take full sun in cool summer areas. PLGR Pleioblastus gramineus - Medium-sized, attractive, grassy looking bamboo. Grows to 12' and has long narrow leaves. Hardy to 0 degrees. Runner. Good for erosion control. Full sun to light shade. Salt tolerant. PLGRS Pleioblastus gramineus monistri-spiralis - This rare bamboo has uniquely spiraled culms, is light green and can grow up to 15' tall and 1 ¼" in diameter in ideal conditions. Good as a decorative hedge or container plant. Hardy to 0 degrees and can grow well in bright shade to full day sun. Runner that behaves more like a clumper and is slow growing. PLH Pleioblastus hindsii - Similar to PLHI but culms are smaller in diameter and has and larger leaves. Has more of a weeping form. Grows 8-10' tall. 2-4 sunshine. PLHI Pleioblastus hindsii "Yasui" - A new introduction from Japan with distinctive, upright, stiff leaves and handsome mounded form. Has edible shoots of outstanding flavor. Grows to 18' tall, is cold hardy to 0 degrees, and resists salt damage. PLKA Pleioblastus kongosanensus aureostriata - Good for a short hedge (5' or shorter), and erosion control. Leaves are a beautiful light bright green 1" x 5-7", and abundant, creating a very full look. PLHU Pleioblastus humilis - A 4' dwarf with dark green leaves. Good for erosion control. Hardy to -10 degrees. Part shade. PLL Pleioblastus linearus - Forms a 15' tall plumed bush with hanging leaves. Plant in sun or shade. Hardy to 0 degrees. Salt tolerant. PLLN Pleioblastus linearis nana - A short version (3-4' tall) of PLL, with narrow leaves. Runner that spreads very slowly. Will do ok down to 0 degrees, and likes half to full day sun. PLPM Pleioblastus pygmaeus distichus - A nice dark green ground cover that grows 4"-10" tall. Needs to be pruned back annually (early spring), but only takes 3-6 weeks to show new growth. Hardy to 10 degrees and prefers good indirect light all day to half day sun at most. PLPS Pleioblastus sp. - A common and robust dwarf known as "SASA PYGMAEA". This attractive and rugged plant grows about 2' tall in part sun or shade and is hardy to 0 degrees. PLSH Pleioblastus shibuyanus
tsuboi - An excellent new variety from Japan. Uniform, creamy variegation
blends with the green to form a
light, warm, glowing texture. While its natural form is pleasing,
it may also be pruned once or twice a year to maintain a
low ground cover or hedge. Its foliage remains fresh and attractive
all year. Grows to 8'. Hardy to 0 degrees, takes part to PLSI Pleioblastus simonii - Produces straight, 20' tall by 1" diameter culms useful for many purposes. Slow spreader good for hedge or screen. Young shoots are edible. Hardy to -10 degrees. Full sun to part shade. Excellent salt tolerance. PLSV Pleioblastus simonii heterophyllus - Same as PLSI except some leaves are narrow and striped with white. It is faster growing than the form above. PLVS Pleioblastus viridi striatus - Has very attractive bright yellow leaves with sharp green stripes. Needs just the right amount of light for best effect. Too much and it burns, too little and the yellow doesn't develop. Great against a dark backdrop. It generally grows 3' tall but can grow twice that. Hardy to -10 degrees and more if heavily mulched. PLVSC Pleioblastus viridi striatus chrysophylla - Same as PLVS but without the green stripes. It is slower growing. PSEUDOSASA The Asian genus consists of small to medium sized, running bamboos with usually one and never more than three branches per node. Good as a hedge or ground cover. PSJ Pseudosasa japonica, also known as ARROW BAMBOO for its historic use, produces thin, strong, and straight culms. In full sun it makes an attractive 15 to 18' tall, dense screen with large dark green leaves.. In shade, it grows a lighter green and more openly. Hardy to 0 degrees. PSJAS Pseudosasa japonica Akebono-suji - Similar to PSJA but variegated leaves (white stripes on green). PSJT Pseudosasa japonica tsutsumiana, or SCALLION BAMBOO - Similar to the above except it is lower growing and develops interesting, bulging internodes. PSJP Pseudosasa japonica pleioblastoides - Similar to Arrow Bamboo but with more branches and denser. This new introduction is a vigorous grower. PSO Pseudosasa owatari - This dwarf bamboo grows 10-20" tall and is excellent as a potted plant, bonsai or ground cover. Does best if mowed every other year (leafs out again in a month). Hardy to 0 degrees and likes half to full day sun. PSU Pseudosasa usawai - Imported from Taiwan in 1981 where it grows to 16' tall and ¾" in diameter, takes part to full sun, and is hardy to at least 10 degrees. Not a great deal is known about this plant as it is new to cultivation. SASA A genus of dwarf running bamboos which usually have large, stubby leaves. Most are from Japan. They usually get no taller than 6', have one branch at each node, and shoot in the spring. Most are useful in the garden for ground cover and texture and make good container plants. They look best grown in some shade. SAKA Sasa kagamiana - Similar to SAP but this bamboo has no black spots and its leaves are short, wide and green with striation. Grows to 6' tall and hardy to 0 degrees. Good decorative plant for containers or contained in the ground. SAKL Sasa kurilensis - A hardy bamboo from the Kuril Islands, the northern most islands of Japan. It grows to 10' tall and ¾" in diameter, is hardy to 0 degrees, and looks best grown in some shade. SAKLS Sasa kurilensis simofuri - A subtly variegated form with improved appearance. SANAG Sasa sp. "Nagimontana" - Creates discrete clumps about 3' tall with semi-dark green leaves and culms. Leaves are 1 ¼" x 6 ½". Good ground or container plant which is hardy to 0 degrees and likes indirect light all day, to half-day morning sun. SAO Sasa oshidensis - Distinctive because its leaves curl in lengthwise. It is particularly good for stabilizing the banks of creeks and rivers because of its massive root structure, but can also be used as a hedge. Grows up to 6' tall, hardy to 0 degrees and prefers half day sun. SAPN Sasa palmata nebulosa - Valued by many for its large leaved, tropical appearance. It commonly grows up to 15' in Japan. Leaves can reach 15" length and 2 ½" width. Hardy to -10 degrees and an aggressive runner. SAT Sasa tsuboiana - Attractive dark green foliage. Leaves reach 7" length. Makes interesting texture under trees. Grows to 6'. Hardy to at least 5 degrees. SAV Sasa veitchii - Attractive dark green leaves which, toward winter, develop a bold, quasi variegated effect. The leaf edges die back to form a decorative, tan margin. New growth, during spring and summer, restores the planting to a solid green appearance. Likes shade and moisture. Grows to 3' to 5' and is hardy to -10 degrees. SAVHR Sasa veitchii hirsuta "sachaliensis" - This bamboo is similar to SAV except its leaves are long and narrow. Hardy to -15 degrees. Likes good indirect light all day, to half-day direct sunlight. SAVM Sasa veitchii minor - Similar to SAV but shorter and has smaller leaves with decorative browned edges. This ground cover bamboo only reaches 10-24" tall. Mow annually in late winter or early spring. Hardy to 10 degrees, and can do well with good indirect light to full sun. SASAELLA A genus of running bamboos similar to Sasa except with straight culms and smaller leaves. They usually have one branch per node. SBB Sasaella bitchuensis - This plant grows up to 4-6' tall and has leaves which are wide, long and dark green. Good for covering corners or for a short screen or hedge. Hardy to 0 degrees and likes good indirect light to half day direct sunlight. SBMA Sasaella masamunean - Ground cover bamboo with dark green foliage that grows to 14" in the shade and 4' in full sun. Hardy to 0 degrees. For best results, mow in late winter or early spring. Plants will leaf out again within a month or two. SBMAR Sasaella masamunean "rhycantha" - Similar to SBMA but longer, narrower leaves. Hardy to -10. SBMS Sasaella masamuniana albostriata, or SAM BAMBOO is an attractive, mostly dark green bamboo with a sprinkling of cream and light green striped leaves. The foliage remains fresh looking throughout the year. It commonly grows 3 to 6' tall and is hardy to -10 degrees. An excellent horticultural species. SEMIARUNDINARIA A genus of medium, size running bamboos from East Asia three branches per node and nearly cylindrical culms. It shares some characteristics of both Phyllostachys and Pleioblastus. SEF Semiarundinaria fastuosa
- Also known as JAPANESE TEMPLE BAMBOO. Fastuosa means 'tall and stately'
and lives up to its name. The species
makes an excellent dense screen 20 to 25' tall with branches and leaves
growing the length of the plant.
It has a straight, vertical growth habit suitable for barriers in
narrow places. Foliage is dark green. The culms develop a SEFV Semiarundinaria fastuosa viridis - Similar to SEF but culms stay green and may grow a little taller. SEFX Semiarundinaria fortis - Sports very small light green leaves at each node. It grows to 12' tall and 1 ½" in diameter and is good as a screen or hedge. Hardy to 0 degrees and likes half to full day sun. SEMK Semiarundinaria sp. "Makinoi" - Decorative form with yellow culm and irregular, slightly zig-zagged green stripe. A runner that behaves more like a clumper, it will form nice isolated clumps, or create a hedge up to 15' tall. Hardy to 0 degrees and likes half to full day sun. SEO Semiarundinaria okuboi - This aggressive runner grows to 25" feet' and 1 ½" in diameter. Hardy to -10 degrees. Leaves are relatively wide for their length and attractively arranged. Previously known as Semiarundinaria villosa. SEYH Semiarundinaria yashidake - Similar to S. fastuosa but not as large or vertical growing. Hardy to -5. SEYHK Semiarundinaria yashidake kimmei - Decorative bamboo with culms which are golden with a fading green stripe. The leaves are dense and green and have golden stripes. Grows 8-12' tall and can tolerate down to -5 degrees. Prefers good indirect light to half-day sun. Great container plant. SHIBATAEA A genus of small, non aggressive, running bamboos from China and Japan with 3 to 5 short branches per node and wide stubby leaves. Prefers semi-shade. SHC Shibataea chinensis - Growing to only 2' tall this form makes a nice low hedge or garden plant. Has short stubby light green leaves. Does well in shade, and tolerates sun better than SHK. SHK Shibataea kumasaca, is a unique bamboo with a compact shrubby look that usually grows 5' tall, but can reach 7'. Its leaves are short, stubby, and horizontally arranged. Slow spreading and shallow rhizomes are easy to control with a shovel.Hardy to -5 degrees. SINOBAMBUSA A genus of tropical running Chinese bamboos similar to Semiarundinaria except the culm sheaths promptly fall off. Good container plant. SIT Sinobambusa tootsik, an attractive, vigorous runner with straight, erect culms. Grows 30' tall with 1 ½" in diameter culms in part to full sun. Hardy to 10 degrees. SITA Sinobambusa tootsik albostriata - A beautiful form of tootsik that has white leaves with green stripes. Grows to 20-25' tall and 1 ½" in diameter. Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade. THAMNOCALAMUS A genus of clumping mountain bamboos from Asia and Africa. TAR Thamnocalamus aristatus - Attractive lacey bamboo from the Himalayans. Grows to 12' tall and is a clumper. Culms range from pale green to turquoise color, and branches are often reddish. Hardy to 5 degrees and does best with only half day sun. TTS Thamnocalamus tessellatus, is also known as BERG BAMBOO in South Africa where it is the only native. Grows 16' tall with 1" diameter culms. Retentive white culm leaves form an interesting pattern with triangles of dark green culm showing through. When grown in part shade, the culms bend over with the weight of numerous, closely spaced leaves. Hardy to 0 degrees. YUSHANIA A genus of medium sized, clumping mountain bamboos from Asia. YUA Yushania anceps, a beautiful
mountain bamboo from Formosa and the Philippines. Myriads of small
leaves are borne on tall, bent,
slender culms. This slow runner may be effectively used for screening
in shady places. It readily forms dense masses of
foliage in less light than most bamboos. When grown in full sun its
leaves tend to curl. It can reach 12' with culms ¾" in YUC Yushania chumgii - Similar to YUANP, but foliage is dark green and dense from top to bottom. Grows to 8' tall and is good for screening or as a hedge, and does well under redwoods. Hardy to -5 degrees and likes morning sun, afternoon shade. YUAN Yushania anceps 'Pitt White', possibly the same as the above but this clone is a seedling of a plant which grew 32' tall at Pitt White, England.
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Copyright 2005 - Maas Nursery
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At
Maas Nursery, we carry the following Clumping Varieties: Alphonse
Karr, Beechey, Buddha's Belly, Golden Goddess, Feather, Oldham Giant
Timber, Silver Stripe, Weavers and Hedge. Our running varieties include
Black, Congesta, Golden, Henon, Nari-Hire, Robert Young and Yellow
Groove.