Phllostachys nigra punctata

Choosing a bamboo

Bamboos are marvelous at creating a tropical feeling with their evergreen leaves and stately canes or culms. They rapidly grow to their final height and then slowly spread out.

Several varieties are good as windbreaks or even as a hedge. For a very exposed spot the Pseudosasa japonica or the Phyllostachy bisettii are ideal. Both of these keep their winter leaves well even with a cold gale which is a real asset.

For a specimen clump we have several good varieties. Phyllostachys nigra, the black bamboo is good with the variety punctata being slightly less black but more vigorous. One of my favorites is the P. Aureosulcata as this has glossy yellow culms with a bright green stripe running up a groove. Both of these make 15-20 feet (4-6m) in reasonable soil. Have a look at our bamboo list.

Pleioblastus variegatus