Bambusa textilis Gracilis Weaver’s Bamboo Spec and Info

Slender Weaver’s Bamboo (Bambusa textilis gracilis)  is commonly called the Weaver’s bamboo. 

This clumping bamboo is tall, slender, upright, and thin-walled; a specimen of non-invasive bamboo. 

It can grow to 10 metres in height, ideal for garden hedges, privacy screens and large heavy-duty pots. 

Bambusa textilis gracilis is a standout bamboo plant to grow outdoors, or in pots and containers.

 

Quick facts

• Identification: Weaver's bamboo 'Gracilis', Bambusa textilis var. gracilis, Weaver's bamboo, Graceful weaver's bamboo.
• Foliage: Evergreen dense foliage.
• Culm: Tall upright slender bamboo.
• Height: 9 – 10m, tall/large bamboo
• Spread: 3 – 4m clump-forming
• Use: Privacy screens, garden hedging, containers, oriental garden, individual plant, landscaping
• Perennial: 20 years.

Bamboo growth requirements

• Site: Full sun to part shade.
• Soil: loamy, sand and clay.
• Moisture: Well-drained and moist.
• Hardiness: – 10 to – 4 degrees Celsius, UK H4 hardy.

Check out the list of UK Home and Garden retailers that sell bamboo plants.

Varieties of Bambusa textilis 'Gracilis' cultivars

The distinct variations among the Bambusa textilis cultivars make it easy to tell them apart. 

First, let’s take a look at the 5 common Bambusa textilis 'Gracilis' cultivars. 

Slender Weaver’s Gracilis Bamboo (Bambusa textilis var. gracilis): 

This is the common Weavers’ Bamboo in the Bambusa gracilis group. Its desirable slender and clump-forming nature makes it a preferred choice for tall privacy screens and garden hedging. 

Emerald Bamboo (Bambusa textilis 'mutabilis'): 

A stunning upright bamboo with a spectacular blueish white appearance, quite a rare bamboo. 

The name ‘emerald’ is fitting for its light-yellow elongated culms, slim green leaves and graceful foliage. 

Bambusa textilis ‘Kanapaha’: 

Commonly called Wang Chuk meaning Royal Bamboo. This Timber Bamboo is a giant of the Bambusa textilis group. 

It can reach a height of 15 – 20 metres at maturity. 

Bambusa textilis ‘RG Dwarf’ (Weaver's Bamboo Dwarf): 

Do not be fooled by the name, Weaver's Bamboo Dwarf can grow to 5 metres in height. 

Compared to the other Dwarf Bamboos the Weaver's Bamboo is tall. 

The Weaver's Bamboo Dwarf is a Tropical bamboo variety that requires high humidity, fertile soil, and high moisture and grows well in confined spaces – an ideal indoor dwarf bamboo plant. 

Bambusa textilis 'Maculata': 

Slender and erect bamboo, very similar to Gracilis. It is an excellent bamboo for small yards and tight spaces. 

The culms are slightly further apart at the base, unlike the Slender Weaver’s Bamboo.

How to grow slender Weaver’s bamboo textilis

There are several ways to grow bamboo, it depends on how much time you have and what propagation method suit you. 

Here are the three reliable (and quick) ways to grow large clumping bamboos are:

1. Clump separation or division;
2. Culm cuttings; or
3. Nursery bamboo textilis plants.

Firstly, growing the slender Weaver’s Bamboo from clump separation is probably the quickest way to propagate bamboo. 

If you have an old bamboo grove, you can take the divisions and plant them straight into the ground. 

Secondly, propagation by stem cuttings is another effective way to grow large bamboo such as the Bambusa textiles and Bambusa tuloides varieties. 

But, you have to propagate the cuttings in the propagating medium before transplanting them into large pots or into the ground. 

And thirdly, buying the Slender Weaver’s bamboo from nursery and growing it is probably the quickest get a new plant. 

You do not have to worry about the propagation period. 

Here are some UK home and garden retailers where you can get your bamboo plants, supplies and accessories from.

Qualities and features of slender Weaver’s bamboo plants

The Slender Weaver’s Bamboo, Bambusa textilis, is clump-forming, hardy, evergreen with slender, green to yellow culms and slightly arching stems. 

This bamboo produces many canes that are very closely spaced and have dense foliage. Since the slender Weaver’s Bamboo grows tall, it does not prefer sites where there are strong winds. 

Plant it in protected sites or away from the wind. 

For example, it will grow very tall if it grows under tall pines or other deciduous trees. 

In an ideal case, grow the slender Weaver’s bamboo to block any tall unsightly features next door.

Uses of slender Weaver’s bamboo

This clump-forming non-invasive bamboo is the best choice for tall and thick garden hedges and privacy screens. 

In fact, the thick green leaves, arching evergreen foliage and tall (upright dense) culms make this bamboo the best choice for tall covers. 

It is also an ideal bamboo for large pots and containers. One reason why it makes a good container plant is its compact (clumping) nature. It adapts well to confined spaces. 

Another reason this bamboo is ideal for pots and containers is that it will *not* grow to its full height when planted in pots, however, it will still give admirable stem colourations, slender culms and evergreen foliage. 

Also, if you want to grow a Bambusa textilis in pots and containers, the best option is Bambusa textilis ‘RG Dwarf’ (the Weaver's Bamboo Dwarf) or Buddah's Belly Bamboo (Bambusa tuldoides Ventricosa).

How to care for your slender Weaver’s bamboo?

Although the slender Weaver’s bamboo plants are tolerant to pests and variable soil conditions, there is a number of natural threats growers should be mindful of, such as slugs’ attacks and wind. 

Slugs' attack on bamboo plants is a common occurrence, they adore the new shoots and leaves. 

Protect the new growth, especially in Spring and Summer when the new growths are prominent, by applying Slug and Snail Killer. 

Ominously, the Weaver’s Bamboo is tall. Its new culms will have several internodes before putting out branches and leaves, therefore, the culms are susceptible to wind. 

Stake the new culms to protect them from swaying and breaking.

General care for bamboo plants

Generally, the running- and clump-forming bamboos love moist soil but do not like too much water. 

The newly planted bamboo plants will thrive in well-aerated loam, or sand and loose clay soil. So, make sure that the soil remains well-drained and aerated. 

In addition, the older plants will require fertiliser and mulch, at least, once in Spring. Check to see if they are putting out new shoots, or whether the leaves and soil are in good condition. 

For healthy bamboo plants, do these:

• Apply Slug and Snail Killer around your new bamboo.
• Add organic mulch.
• Tie the culms to bamboo sticks/stakes.
• Add NPK fertilizers.
• Trim old culms to promote new growths.

The Slender Weaver’s Bamboo textilis is a formidable plant for garden hedging and privacy screens. 

Fargesia Papyrifera 'Blue Dragon' Bamboo Plants

Fargesia ‘Blue Dragon’ (Fargesia papyrifera Borinda) is known for its stunning stem colouration. 

Blue Dragon’s whitish-blue culms can reach a full height of 5m to 7m. 

The borinda bamboo family are ideal for natural privacy screens or as an ornamental garden feature.

Quick facts

• Identification: Fargesia papyrifera ‘Blue Dragon’, Borinda ‘Blue Dragon’, Borinda Papyrifera.
•  Foliage: Evergreen bushy foliage.
• Culm/sheath: Tall, thick, powdery whitish-blue culms and large brown sheath.
• Height: 4 – 7m, upright.
• Spread: 3 – 4m, clump-forming.
• Use: specimen, containers, oriental garden, individual plant, landscaping.

Find out where to buy clumping bamboo plants in the UK.

Growth requirements

• Site: Shade to full sun.
• Soil: loam (equal amounts of sand, clay, silt) or loam-based composts.
• Moisture: Well-drained and moist.
• Hardiness: –15 to – 10 degrees Celsius, UK H5 hardy.

What are the other Borinda clumping bamboo cultivars?

There are several varieties of Borinda clumping bamboo cultivators. They are clumping umbrella bamboo, non-invasive, upright with evergreen foliage. 

The ‘Blue Dragon’ (or Blue Stem Bamboo) is a stunning ornamental bamboo plant.

The Blue Stem Bamboo was introduced in 2015. Many of them are recently introduced cultivars in the UK. 

They are hardy, vigorous and tolerant plants.

Blue Bamboo Plant Cultivars

There are several Fargesia Borinda varieties that are thriving in the UK. Here are the three that you can find online or at your local garden centre:

• Fargesia 'Blue Dragon' (Fargesia papyrifera Borinda)
• Frost Bamboo (Fargesia Borinda Angustissima).
• Chocolate Bamboo (Borinda fungosa).
• Borinda yunnanensis (Fargesia yunnanensis)

Check out the bamboo collections at Thomson & Morgan UK.

Standout features of Fargesia Borinda bamboo plants

The four Fargesia Borinda bamboos have stunning features from the new shoots to culm colours, sheets and leaves. 

These clump-formers are prominent in the US and Australia where there are pronominally seen in feature gardens and landscaping. 

They also add splashes of different colours to the backyard garden and outdoor areas. 

Fargesia papyrifera Borinda: 

The 'Blue Dragon' Papyrifera Borinda is a clumping umbrella bamboo, also called the ‘Blue Dragon’ after its spectacular blue culms. 

It is a tall upright bamboo that will eventually arch under the weight of the shiny green leaves. A great ornamental plant. 

Fargesia Borinda Angustissima: 

Borinda Angustissima is probably the common Fargesia Borinda bamboo in the UK. 

Angsutissima is known for its crimson-purple shoots, lime green culms, creamy sheaths and frosty leaves giving it a white powdery appearance. 

Fantastic as an individual plant or in rows as a privacy screen and hedge. 

 The 'Frosty Bamboo'

 

Borinda fungosa: 

This clumping bamboo is a standout due to its burgundy-red culms. 

It has large slender leaves that closely resemble the leaves of Fargesia yunnanensis. 

Both bamboo fungosa and yunnanensis have beautiful leaf patterns. The leaves tend to form a full, lush screen perfect for small outdoor spaces. 

Fargesia yunnanensis: 

This fountain bamboo has peculiar purple-pink sheaths, and the young foliage has hair-like nodes. 

The leaves of bamboo Fargesia yunnanensis and Borinda fungosa are similar.

You must pay close attention to the sheath, culms and shoots to tell them apart. They are perfect for small outdoor spaces, or pots and containers. 

How to grow Fargesia papyrifera ‘Blue Dragon’?

Growing the Fargesia papyrifera ‘Blue Dragon’ from clump separation is probably the quickest way. 

Propagation by stem cuttings is another effective way to grow the ‘Blue Dragon’. However, you have to propagate the cuttings in a propagating medium before transplanting them. 

Growing these spectacular specimen bamboos requires care and attention to get them off to a good start. But, as mentioned, the Fargesia Borinda family are quite recently cultivars in the UK. 

Therefore, you may have difficulty finding a ‘Blue Dragon’ grove near you. 

If you cannot get a plant at your local nursery or garden centre, check online.

Where to buy bamboos in the UK?

We list the suppliers of bamboo plants, here. 

They are renowned UK Gardens Shops where you can get your bamboo plants, supplies and accessories from.

Uses of Fargesia papyrifera ‘Blue Dragon’

This clump-forming bamboo is the best choice for tall garden hedges and privacy screens. 

In fact, the thick green leaves, arching evergreen foliage and upright dense culms are the best choices for tall covers. It is also an ideal bamboo for large pots and containers. 

One reason why it makes a good container plant is its compact (clumping) nature. 

It adapts well to confined spaces. 'Blue Dragon will grow to its full height when planted in pots and it will still give the admirable stem colourations, slender culms and evergreen foliage. 

In addition, if you want to grow a Fargesia Borinda in pots and containers, the best option is Fargesia Borinda Angustissima.

How to care for your Fargesia ‘Blue Dragon’?

Fargesia papyrifera ‘Blue Dragon’ plants are tolerant to pests and variable soil conditions. 

But, be mindful of slugs’ attacking the new growths. Protect the new growth, especially in Spring and Summer when the new growths are prominent, by applying Slug and Snail Killer. 

The ‘Blue Dragon’ is tall. This bamboo, like the tall bamboo plants, is susceptible to wind. 

Stake the new culms to protect them from swaying and breaking.

General care for bamboo plants

Generally, the running and clumping bamboos love moist soil, but they do not like waterlogged areas. 

Newly planted bamboo plants will thrive in well-aerated loam, or sand and loose clay soil. So, make sure that the soil remains well-drained and aerated.

Also, the older plants will require fertiliser and mulch, at least, once in Spring. 

Check to see if they are putting out new shoots, or whether the leaves and soil are in good condition.

For healthy bamboo plants, do these:

• Apply Slug and Snail Killer around your new bamboo.
• Add organic mulch.
• Tie the culms to bamboo sticks/stakes.
• Add NPK fertilizers.
• Trim old culms to promote new growths.

More info on bamboo care

Finally, the Fargesia ‘Blue Dragon’ and three other Fargesia Borinda bamboo plants are stunning plants. 

The clump-forming bamboo plants are recent cultivars hand have outstanding colourations and features.

Diagram showing Parts of a Clumping Bamboo Plant

 

Parts of a clump-forming bamboo

The rhizomes of the clumping bamboos are stout, and thick and grow upwards from the parent plants, also called the Pachymorphs rhizomes. 

Usually, the base culms are much thicker than the stem, compact as they grow upward, forming solid tight clumps.  Dia: Adapted from Bamboos by C.Recht & M.F. Wetterwald

Importance of knowing the parts of a bamboo

As mentioned earlier, there are many different groups of bamboo cultivars. 

The common bamboos we know in the UK are the clump-forming and running bamboos. 

The running and clumping bamboo plants have different parts which are important when it comes to identifying them. 

This is vital especially when reading material or working with bamboo. 

We hope that this information gives you some ideas about the parts of a bamboo plant.

How to identify clump-forming bamboo plants?

Clumping bamboo and running bamboo are members of the grass family. There are several varieties of bamboo plants. 

Bamboo plants are common in the temperate and tropical zones mainly in Asia, Central and South America and the Pacific region. 

The plants growing in the UK, US and Australia are either clumping bamboo or running bamboo. Sometimes referred to as clumpers or runners, respectively.

5 distinct parts of a clumping bamboo

Identifying the exact bamboo can be difficult unless you have enough time, and botanical knowledge and are curious to find out. 

Also, it can be tricky to identify bamboo by its appearance. 

The 5 distinct parts will help you work out if the bamboo is a clumper or not. 

Use this diagram to help you. 

Clumping bamboo parts showing rhizome, shoot, culm base, Base buds, nodes etc.

1. Rhizome: The rhizome is short, stout and thick forming a tight clump around the parent plant.
2. Shoot and culm: New rhizome grows upright into a new shoot which eventually becomes culm close to the parent bamboo.
3. Culm base: The culm base, also called the stem base, is much thicker, at the bottom, than the culm.
4. Base buds: The base buds (the potential new shoots and rhizomes) are found very close together along the parent rhizome.
5. Rhizome nodes: The node rings (or rhizome nodes) underground are close together.

All in all, the bamboo rhizomes and underground parts are vital for separating bamboo into groups. So, take a closer look at the rhizome of bamboo if you want to work out if it is clumping or running bamboo.

How to identify clumping bamboo?

Comparing clumping and running bamboos can give you a better idea about these two varieties. 

Check out this article for in-depth information on clumping vs running bamboos). 

It is also best to know the standout features. So, what is clumping bamboo and how can bamboo growers identify it? 

Use the 5 distinct parts of the clump-forming bamboo plant to identify it.

Where to buy clumping bamboos in the UK?

We work with some big UK home and garden brands. 

Click here to check out the collection of Clumping and Running bamboo plants from the Home & Garden retailers in the UK.

If you want to grow clumping bamboo, but do not know how to pick them, this Complete Guide to Selecting Bamboo will help you. 

Download the PDF for Free

Guided questions for selecting a bamboo.

Clumping bamboo collections

Fargesia group of bamboos are popular clumping bamboo cultivars. They have a spectacular stem and sheath colourations. 

We feature many of these bamboos here at G.B.P. To find out about the 5 clumping bamboo collections listed below, click here.

• 1. Fargesia nitida
• 2. Fargesia murielae
• 3. Fargesia robusta
• 4. Fargesia umbrella bamboos
• 5. Award-winning clumping bamboos

 Simba is a popular clumping bamboo

What to do when buying bamboo?

Bamboo plants from garden shops and online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon have clear labels. 

This makes it easy to identify the bamboo. However, mix-ups are likely when buying bamboo plants online and also in stores. 

Whether you are buying bamboo seeds or bamboo in pots, it is always the right thing to read the labels properly. 

Also, read the reviews and plant descriptions before making a purchase. 

What if you cannot find the bamboo you want? 

We suggest checking these renowned UK garden shops. 

If they still do not have the clumping bamboo that you want, contact them directly. In most cases, they will find what you are looking for.

Grow clump-forming bamboo plants

The 5 parts will help you to identify these bamboos successfully. 

The parts are based around the rhizomes and govern the way these bamboos behave. 

Knowing the parts and their general behaviours can help you work out if your bamboo is clump-forming or not. 

If you have any questions or cannot find what you are looking for, leave a comment and we will get back to you. You can also follow us on Twitter and YouTube.

Clump-forming Bamboo Plants UK

We featured over 50 clumping bamboos on Garden Bamboo Plants (G.B.P.) and wrote numerous articles detailing their:

• uses & qualities;
• growing conditions & growth requirements; and
• care & maintenance.

This article features both the clumping and running bamboos that are common in the UK. 

We can reliably say that there are over 50 common clumping bamboos that can grow well in the UK, including the US and Australia.

• How to identify running bamboo plants
• How to identify clumping bamboo plants

Pros and cons of growing clumping bamboo

Generally, there are lots of good stories about growing clumping bamboos in the garden or in pots. 

Also, many bamboo growers like clumping bamboos because they are great for garden hedging and privacy screening. 

Their clumping habit makes them the ideal choice for growing in small and contained spaces like balconies, terraces and apartments. 

The clumping bamboos will demand care and attention, either as new plants or in Spring when the new growths are prominent. 

Also, the mature bamboo plants can be difficult to remove when they expand out of the allocated space, or if left unchecked for 2 to 3 years. 

The growing habits of these bamboos indicate that the pros of growing them definitely outweigh the cons. 

Clump-forming bamboo habits

Look closely at the parts that are underground, especially the areas around the clumps. 

The clump base of clump-forming bamboo plants, as the name suggests, is stout and compacted, unlike the running bamboo plants that have elongated rhizomes (underground stems).

The clump-forming bamboo is extensively characterised by the behaviour of its rhizomes. 

Alternatively, here is an article that gives a clear comparison of the parts of clumping vs running bamboo. 

 

Click here to check out the collection of Clumping and Running bamboo plants from the Home & Garden retailers in the UK.

Four Shade-loving Clumping Bamboo Plants

Some of our visitors suggested we create a list of bamboos that have similar features to Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’. 

We feel that this is a great suggestion because it makes it easier to cross-reference these bamboos when making comparisons. 

As mentioned here, Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’ is a great bamboo for shaded sites. 

So, we are listing 3 bamboos that are similar to the Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’. 

The similarities are based on 5 important factors: they are clumping and have similar mature height, foliage, hardiness and use. Above all, these plants are shade-loving.

Fargesia murielae ‘Standing Stone’ (Height: 5m, upright bamboo Spread: 2 - 3m, clumping bamboo)

Fargesia murielae Angustissima Height: 5m, upright bamboo Spread: 2 - 3m, clumping bamboo)

Fargesia Scrabrida Asian Wonder (Height: 5m, upright bamboo; Spread: 2 - 3m, clumping bamboo)

Where to buy Fargesia murielae 'Dino'?

We feature prominent UK Home and Garden retailers where you can buy bamboo plants, tools and products. 

Check out the the UK retailers here

We also featured a special group of Award-Winning Bamboo Plants. 

These bamboos received the RHS Merit Award in the UK and other Bamboo Awards for their notable garden features. 

If you are having difficulty selecting bamboo, this group of bamboo plants will not disappoint you.

Shade-loving Clumping Bamboo Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’

Fargesia murielae 'Dino' is a fantastic clumping bamboo plant, hardy and shade tolerant. 

It has bright green stems turning yellow-green as it matures an excellent bamboo for planting in pots and containers, rarely reaching any more than 5 metres in height. 

This clumping bamboo will thrive in most situations, but preferably in well-drained moist soil. Tolerant of shade and a very reliable clumping bamboo.

General description

• Name: Fargesia murielae ‘Dino, Bambus Dino
• Foliage: Evergreen, upright.
• Culm: light green with shiny brown sheath, turning yellow.
• Height: 3 – 5m.
• Spread: 0.5 – 2m, clump-forming.

Growth requirement

• Site: Full sun, part shade and shade.
• Soil: Well-drained moist soil.
• Moisture: Well-drained and moist.
• Hardiness: Fully hardy bamboo.
• Use: ornamental plant, pots and containers, landscaping, architecture, individual plant.

Where to buy Fargesia murielae 'Dino'?

We feature prominent UK Home and Garden retailers where you can buy bamboo plants, tools and products. 

Check out the the UK retailers here

How to grow Fargesia murielae Dino?

Grow in pot and container

Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’ is a tough plant it will thrive in contained spaces where conditions are suitable. 

This bamboo is great as a windshield or as a privacy screen for apartments or terraces. 

Water well and ensure the soil remains moist until the new bamboo plants are well established in the pots or containers.

Grow in the garden

This clumping bamboo is a standout in the garden due to its long culms, pointy tips and brown shiny sheaths. 

Unmistakable among other vegetation and plants in the garden, Dino is a great ornamental bamboo with its evergreen foliage. 

This bamboo is also a good addition as either a garden centrepiece or decoration.

Propagate clumping bamboo ‘Dino’

This clumping bamboo is best propagated by clump-base separation.

Other techniques for growing such bamboo plants include stem cuttings and air layering of the branches. 

Maintain Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’

Bamboos, like other plants, will require attention to grow well. 

The care tips will help your Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’ remain healthy. 

In this other article, we provide a detailed guide to Bamboo Care and Maintenance, it gives further details on Before and After Care.

Thinning & Pruning

Trim the old culms to promote new healthy growth. 

Also, trim the new shoots to control the clumping bamboo Dino from expanding, often done once or twice a year to keep the plant under control.

Pruning bamboo is intensive work compared to thinning bamboo. 

Dig and remove the parts of the bamboo that have outgrown the allocated space, also an ideal time to take the bamboo divisions for replanting. 

Often done after 4 or 5 years.

Mulch

Mulching is a highly recommended care and maintenance job to keep the soil moist and protect the bamboo from frost and frozen soils. 

Always use the bamboo leaves as mulch since they contain silicon which is naturally high in nitrogen. 

Organic mulch such as tree barks, and grass cuttings mixed with twigs and branches are also great bamboo mulch. 

The best time for mulching is early in Spring before the new bamboo shoots come out; or late in Autumn when you expect cold Winter.

 

Maintain Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’ in Shade

The clump formers are non-invasive bamboos, however, clumpers in pots and containers will require repotting after 4 or 5 years. 

It is often hard work removing the bamboos from a pot or container when they’ve filled out the space. Perhaps it is important to select the right pots before planting your bamboo plants. 

The best pots for planting bamboos have stable bases and opened tops - here is a Guide to Selecting the Right Pot for planting the Running and Clumping Bamboos. 

Also, the clumping bamboos in the garden do not grow out of the allocated space as the running bamboos do. Nevertheless, they tend to expand around the base. 

This clumping habit is visible as the new shoots grow into culms and the underground base buds thicken. 

In such cases, you’ll have to prune the whole plant which is also the ideal time to get new plant divisions and bamboo sticks.

Fargesia murielae Dino shade-loving bamboo

All in all, the Fargesia murielae ‘Dino’ is a stunning bamboo to grow in pots or use as landscaping and architectural plants in the garden.

It is one of the best bamboo plants to grow in full shaded sites.

How to Grow Clumping Bamboo Fargesia murielae Red Zebra

 Clumping bamboo plants are low-maintenance plants. They do not spread from the parent plants.  

Here is a quick tip on how to propagate and grow clumping bamboo plants.

Propagate clumping bamboo ‘Red Zebra’

This clumping bamboo grows well by clump-base division. It can take 4 – 5 years before this bamboo requires some sort of clump division. 

The bamboo’s clump base will expand and cover the spaces where you plant them. 

You can also get more plants when they’ve matured. 

To propagate new Red Zebra bamboos, separate the bamboo into several divisions and grow them in propagation pots before planting them into holding pots or straight into the garden. 

This video shows how we propagate propagating using the three different techniques.

Grow clumping bamboo in containers and barriers

Fargesia murielae ‘Red Zebra’ is a tough bamboo, it will thrive in contained spaces where conditions are suitable. 

Its height and spread make it a perfect plant for growing in pots and containers, ideal for making a statement in the front entryway like the driveway, porch or veranda. 

Newly planted Red Zebra bamboo will require a good amount of water well. 

Also, ensure that the soil remains moist but well-drained until the new plants are rooting.

If you are looking for clumping bamboo plants for sale, check out the link to UK retailers.

Grow clumping bamboo in the garden

This clumping bamboo is a standout in the garden the transformation of the stems from purplish brown to dark red as the culms mature.

Red Zebra is a great ornamental bamboo best planted in the front garden, along the side walkways or where the culms are visible.

Award-winning bamboo plants

We also featured a special group of Award-Winning Bamboo Plants. 

These bamboos received the RHS Merit Award in the UK and other Bamboo Awards for their notable garden features. 

If you are having difficulty selecting bamboo, this group of bamboo plants will not disappoint you. 

Clumping bamboo for sale

Fargesia murielae Red Zebra bamboo ideal pot plant

To make the work lighter, always select the right pots before planting your bamboo plants. 

The best pots for planting bamboos have stable bases and wide tops. Note that it is often hard work to remove the bamboo when they’ve filled out the contained space. 

Here is a Guide to Selecting the Right Pot for planting running and clumping bamboo. Watch the video and find out the best way to grow bamboo plants in the UK.

Buy Clumping Red Bamboo Fargesia murielae 'Red Zebra'

Fargesia murielae 'Red Zebra' bamboo is an attractive small clumping bamboo with deep dark red matured culm and evergreen foliage. 

The Red Zebra is a standout ornament bamboo.

The new shoots and sheaths are covered in variable patterns of purplish-brown tints against the green cluster of leaves and gives Red Zebra bamboo its stunning look. 

The intensity of red in matured stems also adds to the distinct appearance that is similar to popular black running and clumping bamboos.

General description

• Name: Fargesia murielae Red Zebra, Umbrella Bamboo Red Zebra 
• Culm: Upright, purplish tints, culm matures to deep dark red. 
• Height: 2 - 3m. Spread: 1 - 2m, clump-forming.
• Foliage: Evergreen, leaves can be pruned. 

Growth requirement

• Hardiness: Fully hardy bamboo. 
• Site: Full sun, part shade and shade. 
• Soil: Loose nutrient-rich soil or loam, well-drained and moist 
• Use: Ornamental plant, garden centrepiece, individual plant.

'Red Zebra' bamboo plant care

Bamboos, like other plants, will require attention to grow well. 

The bamboo care tips will help you to maintain your clumping bamboo plants.

Thinning

Thinning bamboo plants once or twice a year to promote new growths and keep the plant under control. 

So, selectively trim the old culms and new shoots that you do not want within the bamboo grove.

Pruning

Pruning bamboo is intensive work compared to thinning bamboo. 

Dig and remove the parts of the bamboo that have outgrown the allocated space. 

This is an ideal time to take the bamboo divisions for replanting or getting bamboo sticks for use in the garden.

Mulch

Mulching is a highly recommended care and maintenance job. 

It will keep the soil moist and protect the bamboo from frost and frozen soils. 

Always use the bamboo leaves as mulch since they contain silicon which is naturally high in nitrogen. 

Organic mulch such as tree barks, and grass cuttings mixed with twigs and branches are also great bamboo mulch. 

The best time for mulching is early in Spring before the new bamboo shoots come out; or late in Autumn when you expect cold Winter.

Buy clumping bamboo plants like ‘Red Zebra ’

We feature prominent UK Home and Garden retailers where you can buy bamboo plants, tools and products. 

If you are looking for clumping bamboo plants for sale, check out the link to UK retailers.

Our visitors suggested that we identify bamboos that have similar features to the bamboos we are featuring in each article. 

We feel that this is a great suggestion because it makes it easier to cross-reference these bamboos when making comparisons. 

We are listing 3 bamboos that are similar to the Fargesia murielae ‘Red Zebra ’. 

The similarities are based on 5 important factors: the type (either running or clumping), height, foliage, hardiness and use.

1. Fargesia nitida ‘Volcano’
2. Red Panda Fargesia Bamboo
3. Fargesia Robusta Wolong

Maintain clumping bamboo plants

The clump formers are non-invasive bamboos, however, clumpers in pots and containers will require repotting after 4 or 5 years. 

In addition, the clumping bamboos in the garden do not grow out of the allocated space as the running bamboos do. 

Nevertheless, they tend to expand around the base. 

This clumping habit is visible as the new shoots grow into culms and the underground base buds thicken. 

As mentioned earlier, this could be the ideal time to prune the whole plant which is also an ideal time to get new plant divisions and bamboo sticks.

Clumping bamboo 'Red Zebra'

All in all, the Fargesia murielae ‘Red Zebra’ is a stunning bamboo to grow in pots or use as an individual garden centrepiece.

Maintain clumping bamboo Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard

Bamboos, like other plants, will require attention to grow well. Mature clumping bamboo Fargesia murielae ‘Blue Lizard’ will stay healthy if you check the shoots and add mulch. 

Read about this bamboo here

Pests and diseases

Bamboos are tolerant to pests and diseases in the UK, however, slugs adore the new shoots and leaves. 

If you a planting a new Fargesia murielae ‘Blue Lizard’ or expecting fresh growth in Spring, always add Slug and Snail Pellets to protect them.

Recently, we've seen the new shoots of the cultivated Chinese Yellow Bamboo being eaten by an animal, but we are yet to establish what is actually eating them.

Mulch

Mulching is a highly recommended care and maintenance job. It will keep the soil moist and protect the bamboo from frost and frozen soils. 

Always use the bamboo leaves as mulch since they contain silicon which is naturally high in nitrogen. 

Organic mulch such as tree barks, and grass cuttings mixed with twigs and branches are also great bamboo mulch. 

 The best time for mulching is early in Spring before the new bamboo shoots come out; or late in Autumn when you expect cold Winter.

Bamboos with foliage like ‘Blue Lizard ’ clumping bamboo

Some of our visitors suggested that we create a list of bamboos that have similar features to the bamboos we are featuring in each article. 

We feel that this is a great suggestion because it makes it easier to cross-reference these bamboos when making comparisons. 

We are listing 5 bamboos that are similar to the Fargesia murielae ‘Blue Lizard’. The similarities are based on 5 important factors: the type (either running or clumping), height, foliage, hardiness and use.

See the featured bamboo plants here, Award-Winning Clumping Bamboo Plants. 

These bamboos received the RHS Merit Award in the UK and other Bamboo Awards for their notable garden features. 

If you are having difficulty selecting bamboo, this group of bamboo plants will not disappoint you.

Clumping Bamboo Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard

Fargesia murielae 'Blue Lizard ' is a clump-forming umbrella bamboo with upright (erect) culms. It is also called the Blue Lizard. 

This evergreen bamboo has dense dark foliage due to its broad-leaf clusters with a delicate blue tint. 

The peculiar blue tints on the leaves look like dragon scales, so Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard is also called Fargesia murielae 'Blue Dragon Scale'.

Clumping blue bamboo dendrocalamus strictus

Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard description

• Name: Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard, Fargesia murielae 'Blue Dragon Scale', Umbrella Bamboo
• Foliage: Evergreen, dark blue-green leaves, arching. 
• Spread: 1 - 2m, clump-forming.
• Culm: Upright green stem. 
• Height: 3 - 4m. 

Growth requirement

• Site: Part shade to full sun.
• Hardiness: – 10 to –5 degrees Celsius. 
• Soil: Clay and heavy soil (prefer loam or well-drained soil) 
• Use: Garden hedging, privacy screens, pots and containers, roof terrace, apartment balcony.

Buy clumping bamvoo Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard

Blue Lizard bamboo is an ideal plant for privacy screening the apartment, balcony, porch or any small outdoor places that are less than 3 metres in height. 

Furthermore, you can prune the leaves and new shoots to give a neat hedge. 

We feature prominent UK Home and Garden retailers where you can buy bamboo plants, tools and products.  

Grow Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard

Whether you grow the clumping bamboo in pots or containers or out in the open, there are a few things that you should do when preparing the soil for propagating the bamboo plants. 

Here are 3 tips to getting the bamboos off to a good start.

1. Cultivate in contained spaces

Fargesia murielae ‘Blue Lizard’ is a tough bamboo, it will thrive in clay and variable soil conditions. 

This clumping bamboo is medium height compared to other clumping bamboos, however, it will not reach its full height when planted in pots and containers. 

Newly planted Blue Lizard bamboo will require a good amount of water. Also, ensure that the soil remains moist but well-drained until the new plants are rooting. 

Older plants prefer sunny spots. The blue tint on the leaves is also prominent in the sun.

2. Cultivate in garden

This clumping bamboo is a standout on the sidewalks, near driveways and in the garden hedges due to its broad leaves and dark evergreen foliage. 

Blue Lizard is a great ornamental bamboo best planted in the front garden, along the side walkways or where the leaves are visible.

3. Propagate clumping bamboo ‘Blue Lizard’

The bamboo’s clump base will expand and cover the spaces within 4 – 5 years. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the bamboos and get more plants when they’ve matured. 

To propagate new Blue Lizard bamboos, separate the bamboo into several divisions and grow them in propagation pots before planting them into holding pots or straight into the garden. 

Here is a Complete Guide to Propagating Bamboo by clump-base division.

 

Grow clumping bamboos

The clumping bamboo plants like the Blue Lizards are non-invasive bamboos, however, clumpers in pots and containers will require repotting after 4 or 5 years. 

It is often hard work to remove the bamboos from a pot or container when they’ve filled out the space. 

To make the work lighter, always select the right pots before planting your bamboo plants. 

Also, the clumping bamboos in the garden do not grow out of the allocated space as the running bamboos do, instead, the bamboo underground parts expand around the base. 

This clumping habit is visible as the new shoots grow into culms and the underground base buds thicken. 

As mentioned earlier, this could be the ideal time to prune the whole plant and get new plant divisions and bamboo sticks.

Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard

All in all, the Fargesia murielae ‘Blue Lizard’ is a formidable bamboo plant for hedging and privacy screening. 

Its blue tint leaves, upright culms and dense foliage are the perfect features to create a dense cover.

 ____ 

At G.B.P, our goal is to provide the right information for selecting the right bamboo to grow in the garden and in pots and containers. 

Based on our experience, we also offer bamboo growers’’ tips and guides on how to provide the right care and maintenance for bamboo plants. 

You can see most of our work on YouTube.

Grow Clumping Fargesia murielae 'Ivory Ibis'

Fargesia murielae 'Ivory Ibis ' is a clump-forming umbrella bamboo. This bamboo is a standout, it has upright dense culms and ivory evergreen foliage. 

It is an ideal choice for a formidable natural hedge or privacy screen. 

Bamboo Ivory Ibis is an undemanding bamboo hardy to -25 degrees Celsius and can also tolerate prolonged dry periods. Excellent bamboo for pots and containers, too.

General description

• Name: Fargesia murielae ‘Ivory Ibis’, Umbrella bamboo 'Ivory Ibis'
• Foliage: Evergreen, white shade on leaves (ivory).
• Culm: Upright, green stem, dense.
• Height: 3 - 4m, medium height bamboo, can be pruned.
• Spread: 2 - 3m, clump-forming.

Growth requirement

• Site: Shade, part shade to full sun.
• Soil: Clay and heavy soil (prefer well-drained moist soil)
• Hardiness: – 25 to –20 degrees Celsius.
• Use: Individual plant, pots, hedge, privacy screen.

Buy Fargesia murielae Ivory Ibis

Ivory Ibis bamboo is an ideal plant for privacy screening apartments, balconies, porches or any small outdoor place. 

It is also an ideal hedge plant in the garden because you can prune the leaves and new shoots. 

You can get more information on bamboo plants, tools and natural bamboo products from the renowned UK Home and Garden retailers we work with. 

5 Fargesia murielae bamboos similar to ‘Ivory Ibis’

Finding this bamboo at the local nursery or garden centre can be hard, therefore we provide 5 alternative bamboos that are similar to the ‘Ivory Ibis’. 

The similarities are based on 5 important factors: Fargesia bamboo, similar height, similar foliage, and similar hardiness and can be used as a hedging screen.

1. 'Red Zebra'
2. 'Dino'
3. 'Blue Lizard'
4. 'Blue Dargon'
5. 'Frosty Bamboo'

We also featured a special group of Award-Winning Bamboo Plants. 

These bamboos received the RHS Merit Award in the UK and other Bamboo Awards for their notable garden features. 

If you are having difficulty selecting bamboo, this group of bamboo plants will not disappoint you.

Working with bamboos

The clumping bamboo plants such as the 'Ivory Ibis' are non-invasive bamboos, however, clumpers in pots and containers will require repotting after 4 or 5 years. 

Many bamboo growers will attest to the fact that it is often hard work removing the bamboo from a pot or container when they’ve filled out the space. 

To make the work lighter, always select the right pots before planting your bamboo plants. 

The Fargesia group of bamboos are generally well-behaved, however, the underground bamboo parts expand around the base. 

This clumping habit is visible as the new shoots grow into culms and the underground base buds thicken. 

The culms of the Ivory Ibis will definitely require thinning and pruning after the first 3 years because of their dense culm clusters. 

This is the ideal time to prune the whole plant and get new plant divisions and bamboo sticks. 

Examples of bamboo sticks in use in pots and patio

Fargesia murielae Ivory Ibis

All in all, the Fargesia murielae ‘Ivory Ibis’ is an excellent bamboo for hedging and privacy screens. 

Its dense upright culms and thick foliage are the perfect features for creating a natural dense cover. 

At G.B.P, our goal is to provide the right information for selecting the right bamboo to grow in the garden and in pots and containers. 

Based on our experience, we also offer bamboo growers’’ tips and guides on how to provide the right care and maintenance for bamboo plants. 

You can see most of our work on YouTube.

What Clumping Bamboos to Grow - Umbrella Plants

Umbrella bamboo plants have tall stems and ‘dense foliage'. 

They are clumping bamboo plants.

The thick arching foliage of these bamboos forms a formidable over-hanging shape like an umbrella, thus the name Umbrella Bamboo. 

Their new shoots grow very fast before putting out branches. These bamboo plants tend to reach a height of about 4 to 6 metres, ideal for heavy top-hedge screening.

For example, these bamboos can be used to provide an evergreen cover (or screen) for boundaries, walls and low buildings. 

 Here are 5 tall bamboo plants with an average height of 6 metres and produce the evergreen ‘umbrella’ effect.

Umbrella clumping bamboo privacy plants 6 metres

Most umbrella-clumping bamboo plants grow to 6 metres and are much denser than running bamboo. 

They thrive in the UK climate. 

The bamboo plants listed above are predominantly clump-forming with either thicker culms or produce masses of culms in Spring. 

As the name suggests, the clumping bamboo canes (culms) tend to grow into a tight cluster around the parent plant, forming a formidable tight screen. 

The foliages of matured umbrella bamboo arch into an umbrella shape. 

Unlike the upright bamboos, this special group of bamboos is the best choice for privacy.

 

Clumping umbrella bamboo plants form thick covers

If you are planting bamboo to provide privacy from a short wall or the neighbour's shed, the clump-forming bamboos are the best options. 

However, you may have to buy more than one plant to provide a good cover.

As a rule of thumb, plant the clump-forming bamboo no more than 1.5 metres to give you are dense hedging screen.

Here are the 5 umbrella bamboo plants that form clusters of ‘dense-culms'. 

They are ideal for growing in the garden or in pots and containers. One top tip is to grow these bamboo plants in pots for balcony or patio privacy. 

Choose the bamboo according to the height specification - click here to find out more.

Quick links to bamboo plants for privacy and hedging

What kind of bamboo is best for privacy? 

Depending on what you like, here are some suggestions of living bamboo plants for creating an ideal privacy space.

• Award Winners Best Features
• Living bamboo plants for balcony privacy
• Tall bamboos for 6+ metres hedge and privacy
• Short to medium height bamboo plants 0.5-4 metres
• Medium height bamboos for natural privacy screens 4-6 metres

The umbrella bamboo plants are the best option for privacy screening. 

They are undemanding plants but will provide the cover you need for a long time. 

If you have any questions about the umbrella bamboo, leave a comment below and we'll get back to you.

Non-invasive Bamboo Plants UK - What are They?

If you want to grow non-invasive clumping bamboos in a shady spot, this article will help you find the right one. 

Related articles:

• WHAT BAMBOO TO GROW - CLUMPING OR RUNNING?
• HOW TO IDENTIFY NON-INVASIVE BAMBOO PLANTS?

We list 5 common clumping bamboos that prefer shady sites. For detail on each non-invasive bamboo plant, check out the links.

 

What are non-invasive clumping bamboos?

Clumping bamboos (also called clump-forming or clumpers) and running bamboos are fast-growing grass plants. Yet both bamboo plants are different in many ways. 

The differences are what make them interesting. At Garden Bamboo Plants’ website, we showcase 30 clump-forming bamboos from over 70 featured bamboos. 

Here are the top 5 clumping bamboos for shady spots. 

Click on the link to read more about the height, spread and growth requirements.

• 1) Fargesia papyrifera Blue Dragon
• 2) Fargesia murielae Jumbo Umbrella Bamboo
• 3) Fargesia murielae Simba Umbrella Bamboo
• 4) Fargesia nitida Obelisk Hybrid Umbrella Bamboo
• 5) Fargesia nitida Pillar fountain bamboo

Non-invasive clumping bamboos to grow in the UK

Over 30 clumping bamboos that grow well in shades are listed on this site. The 5 listed above thrive in shaded to medium-shaded areas. 

These clumping bamboos are further sub-divided based on their appearances. 

The groups are, but are not limited to the following:

• 1) Fargesia Nitida,
• 2) Fargesia Murielae,
• 3) Fargesia Robusta, and
• 4) Fargesia Umbrella Bamboos.

They come in different colours, sizes, heights and shapes.

 

What red bamboo for shady spots?

Not only red clumping bamboos can grow in shady spots. 

There are also green, yellow and black non-invasive clumping bamboos, including their cultivars, that are suitable for the garden.

Clumping bamboos for shady spots ranges from mini to medium bamboos. There are in fact many cultivars that tend to grow well in shady spots.

The bamboos change colours as they mature. 

This is one of the things that makes bamboo a beautiful plant. Some clumping bamboo plants have shoots that are bright pink, others purple. 

The early colour changes are spectacular. 

Some bamboo culms will turn black, yellow or green after they lose their sheaths. They also respond to Summer and Winter conditions though they remain evergreen. 

You can prune some of these bamboos, they are best for garden hedges, while the others have fountain-like or umbrella-like foliages. The options are unlimited!

Non-invasive clumping bamboo UK

Clumping bamboos have special places in the garden. 

They are fast-growing and provide an evergreen screen all year round. 

Your choice of clumping bamboo depends on what you want the bamboo to do. 

We hope the options provided in this article help find a better bamboo that meets your expectations. 

 If you have any questions, please leave a comment.