How to Maintain Black Bamboo Phyllostachys Nigra

 The running black bamboo nigra are resilient plants. They tend to thrive in the UK and are commonly used as privacy screens and for garden hedging, or as pot and container plants. 

These bamboos will require care and maintenance as they grow. 

Use the two tips below to help your plants grow unobstructed.

• For new plants and shoots: Add slug and snail pellets to protect them when your bamboos put out new growths.
• For older plants: tall culms and new tender shoots will require staking. Add mulch and prune where necessary.

We have seen slugs devouring the new plants in one visit. 

The different cultivars of Phyllostachys nigra bamboos are no different, they are prone to slug attacks. 

So, apply the Snail and Slug pellets to stop the slugs from damaging the new growths. 

Staking these tall black bamboo plants is a must. The plant support you provide will encourage the tall plants to grow upright and protect the new tender culms from the wind. 

Furthermore, if you grow the Phyllostachys nigra Black Bamboos in pots, they will require some support. 

Staking them is one option. Another option is to use a rope to tie the culms into a tight grove, providing a neat and upright hedge or screen. 

The ideal time to care for your bamboo is when the new growths are coming out early in Spring to Summer. 

Here is how to grow black bamboo nigra.

Common black bamboo plants in the UK

There are 4 common black bamboo plants that grow in UK gardens. You can find most of them at the Kew's Japanese Bamboo Garden in London.

The common Back Bamboo Nigra can also be seen in many home gardens. It is easy to identify with its black stems.

4 common black bamboo plants:

• Black Bamboo Nigra (Phyllostachys nigra)
• Phyllostachys nigra f. henonis
• Phyllostachys nigra 'Megurochiku'
• Tiger Bamboo or simply ‘Bory’ (Phyllostachys nigra ‘Boryana’)

Click on the links to find out more about them.

What types of care to provide for black bamboo plants?

If you are planning to build a roots barrier or thin out your running bamboo rhizomes and culms, do it in early Spring. 

 Always add the access soil and mulch to the base of the bamboo plants and tidy up before Summer. This will stimulate the plants to grow within weeks. 

The best mulch for the bamboo is bamboo leaves. Rake the leaves and put them back near or around the bamboo. 

The other Phyllostachys bamboo plants have green stems with peculiar spots and stripes colourations. 

These running bamboos are hardy, tall and upright plants, and also invasive. 

They require care and attention to grow well.

All in all, the black bamboo plant is one of the Phyllostachys nigra bamboos, well-known for its spectacular black stems. 

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.

Main Parts of a Bamboo Plant

Bamboos are members of the grass family. 

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

The bamboo’s woody stems grow fast. 

Like the other grass species, bamboos have hollow stems, and slender (bladed) leaves that form formidable evergreen foliage.

 

Parts of a bamboo plant

This outline will help you to identify the 10 common parts of a bamboo plant. 

In fact, knowing the different parts is important for understanding your bamboo plant. 

Let’s take a quick look at these parts starting from the ground up.

Rhizomes

Bamboo rhizomes are common in both running and clumping bamboos. 

In the running bamboos, the rhizomes are also known as the horizontal underground stems. As the name implies, the rhizomes run along the ground and spread aggressively. 

In the clumping bamboos, the rhizomes tend to keep close together and form tight bases or clumps, hence the name clumping bamboos. 

The rhizomes are the ‘engine rooms’ where a bamboo plant derives its ‘power’ and ‘energy’ for growth and development.

Bamboo Roots

Bamboo roots are not rhizomes. 

The roots, feeding roots or root hairs, are the thin underground tendrils that grow into the soil, usually from the rhizome nodes. 

The roots are vital for nutrient and water uptake and for supporting the whole bamboo plant.

Bamboo Leaves

Bamboo leaf and foliage are often used interchangeably to mean the same thing, however, there is a slight difference. 

A leaf is the single green vegetative part of the bamboo that appears on the branch, whereas foliage refers to a cluster of leaves.

Bamboo growers say, ‘there are lots of green leaves on the bamboo’ or alternatively they say ‘this evergreen foliage is pretty'. That latter sounds right, hey!

Either way, the bamboo leaves create notable evergreen foliage that appears all year round.

Of course, the leaves are also vitally significant for photosynthesis and transpiration in bamboo plants.

Bamboo Culms

Bamboo culms are often referred to as bamboo stems or canes. 

The culms start off from the ground as tender shoots. 

The culms are cylindrical and have nodes between two internodes. 

Bamboo culms are usually hollow with different thicknesses. 

The lower parts of the bamboo culms are the culm base and culm petiole which are found either underneath the ground or just above it.

Parts of a running bamboo

The running bamboos have noticeably long-running rhizomes with pointy tips, also called the Leptomorph rhizomes and can grow over a considerable distance.

Dia: Adapted from Bamboos by C.Recht & M.F. Wetterwald

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.

Bamboo Grow and Care

We have a lot of useful materials as well as bamboo features that you may find useful. 

Check out the main menu, or related articles below for more information.

1. Working with Bamboo - Digging Tools
2. Separating Bamboo Tips: How to split bamboo plants?
3. Bamboo Care: How to take care of bamboo plants?
4. How to Grow Bamboo in Pot and Container Planters
5. Bamboo Privacy Screen for Balcony, Deck, Patio or Porch

If you are looking for info on a specific bamboo, why not leave a comment below? 

We may be able to help. Or alternatively, we will refer you to the right place where you can get the right help. 

Follow us on Twitter and YouTube where we are active.

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.

Is black bamboo running or clumping?

Phyllostachys nigra black bamboo, commonly called the Black Bamboo, is an invasive bamboo but also behaves like a clumping bamboo in a cooler climate. 

This running bamboo can spread quickly if left unchecked. Such occurrence shows that some of the common bamboo species can be tricky to identify if you do not pay close attention to the rhizome formations. 

It is difficult to tell running bamboo from the clumping bamboo just by looking at its appearance. The best way to identify bamboo is by closer inspection. Check out the two articles to help you identify bamboos like a pro:

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

 Phyllostachys nigra running bamboos, but can behave like clumping bamboos.

Is black bamboo running or clumping?

Black bamboo is running bamboo. 

It is an invasive variety and will spread quickly. 

Always use a root barrier to grow black bamboo plants. Or grow them in heavy-duty pots and containers.

Buying black bamboo plants

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

We made a list of UK home and garden retailers that have black bamboo for sales - suggest checking these renowned UK garden shops. 

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

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

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

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

Bamboo fast-growing evergreen hedge plants?

Bamboos are not the only fast-growing hedge plants. The other fast-growing shrubs for hedging and privacy screening. They are great alternatives to traditional hedge plants like the Green Leylandii, Photinia, Red Robin, Western Red Cedar, Portuguese Laurel and Beech.

The hedging shrubs are evergreen and retain their foliage all year round, while the others are deciduous and lose their leaves in Autumn. 

Many of the hedging trees and shrubs require pruning and mulching to provide neat covers or they’ll grow tall uncontrollably. 

Bamboos are fast-growing, if not the fastest, among the hedging and screening plants. 

In addition, the bamboos are a standout because they come in different varieties. 

We will identify what makes bamboos a good option for hedging, but first, you may be interested in this article that let’s compare the growth rate of 6 common hedging shrubs and trees in the UK.

 

Why use bamboos as a hedging plant?

The bamboos are a group of special hedging plants. 

They will grow fast, reach a certain height and remain evergreen for many years. They have been used extensively in modern landscaping and garden designs to great effects. 

Growing at 2 – 5 ft or 60 - 150cm per year, bamboo is the option for quick hedging. It is fast-growing, evergreen and stands out as the only grass plant for hedging. 

There are, in fact, many varieties of clumping and running bamboos that are suitable for both home and garden hedging. 

Furthermore, these plants come in various sizes, shapes and colours perfect for tall and short hedges. You can trim some bamboos to give a neat hedge while others may not require any trimming at all.

What are the best bamboo plants for hedging?

Although the running bamboo plants are invasive, growing them in contain structures or pots and containers are ideal containment measures. 

Alternatively, choose the clumping bamboos as they are the better options for dense hedges. 

So, if you are looking for a better alternative to the common trees and shrubs and other hedging plants, bamboo hedges are great options.

All You Need to Know About Selecting Bamboo Plants is a guide that will lead you to the right bamboo depending on your preferences. So, check it out and download the PDF version.

Pros and cons of bamboo hedge plants

As a grass variety, bamboos have slim culms, are tall, and slender and tend to grow in masses providing dense evergreen foliage covers all year round. 

But, the running bamboo varieties are invasive and spread very quickly putting out lots of shoots and rhizomes every year. 

This is one of the major reasons why many homeowners and gardeners do not want to grow bamboo hedges. 

Many homeowners who inherited bamboo may find it overwhelming to control the bamboo. These neglected bamboos will require a lot of work to remove. 

They are like a rowdy toddler if you neglect them. 

However, the pros of growing bamboo far outweigh the cons. 

Bamboo plants are formidable hedges. You have to select them carefully, choose the ideal site and care for them as they grow just like the other hedging plants.

How to grow a bamboo hedge?

Clumping bamboos will need spacing of less than a metre in between them. As the clumpers grow, they’ll cover the spaces and provide a formidable hedge. 

The clumpers are perfect for low hedges. 

You’ll have to buy enough clumping bamboo to give you a good hedge or alternatively split the bamboo potted plants so that you can get the thick hedge. 

The running bamboos will spread and ultimately form a dense hedge within 2 to 3 years and reach matured height in 10 to 20 years. 

So, space them out at least a metre to 1.5 metres apart. 

Reassuringly, you do not have to worry about how far to space them. Once the bamboos grow, you can then move them around to cover the gaps.

Care for bamboo hedges

As mentioned earlier, not all bamboos will require trimming. 

They grow to a certain height (called the matured height) and remain that way for 10 – 20 years. 

Whereas other bamboos can be pruned to give a neat appearance. Either way, it boils down to selecting the right bamboo that suits you. 

 The common bamboo care and maintenance include:

• thinning,
• mulching,
• pruning,
• fertilising,
• dig a trench, and
• build boot barrier.

More details on How to Care for Your Bamboo here.

 Provide the right care for your bamboo hedge

Must-do when growing bamboo plants

Before planting bamboo, whether it’s a runner or clumper, you should build a barrier especially when growing them as hedging plants. 

This is an important measure because as they grow, they’ll either spread (runners spread) or expand (clumpers expand). 

Barriers can be root barriers, trenches, raised beds or contained structures – any that works for you.

6 fast-growing evergreen hedge plants in the UK

In the UK, many hedge trees and shrubs are either evergreen or deciduous. Some lose their leaves in spring whereas others remain evergreen, including the bamboo plants. 

What are the fast-growing evergreen hedge plants in the UK? Here we take a look at 6 evergreen, fastgrowing hedge plants. Bamboo, Green Leylandii, Photinia Red Robin, Western Red Cedar, Portuguese Laurel and Beech. 

 

6 fast-growing evergreen hedge plants

Most hedging plants are evergreen except Beech which loses its leaves in Autumn. 

The beech tree has tightly packed branches that still provide the hedging cover in Autumn and Winter, except for the greenery. 

Of the 6 plants, bamboo is the only grass variety among the fast-growing evergreen hedging plants.

Check out the YouGarden Collections of hedging plants. (Affiliate link)

Source: RHS, Woodland Trust, et all.

Tips for selecting the right hedging plants

(The article All you need to know about Selecting Bamboos for Hedging and Screening also provides additional information on the different bamboo plants. Check out the article linked)

Where to buy hedging?

We work with some big UK home and garden brands. 

Check out the links to go straight to their website where you can find out about the hedging plants we feature in this article.

• Phyllostachys Bamboo Plants     Crocus.co.uk
• Clump-forming Bamboos           YouGarden UK

Fast-growing evergreen hedge plants

We know that bamboos are among the 6 fast-growing hedge plants in the UK. 

They are at the top of the group of evergreen hedging plants and come in various shapes, sizes and colours. 

They will require some care and attention as they grow. 

If you want a quick hedge, bamboos are definitely a better option.

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.

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.

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.

Tall Bamboo Phyllostachys Parvifolia Loves Shade and Full Sun

Phyllostachys parvifolia is a tall bamboo that can grow to over 8m in temperate or subtropical conditions. This running bamboo has tall upright culms with thin-walled internodes. 

Its shoot has a purplish tint over brown sheaths giving it a rather calm slender appearance. The shoots can grow 5m to 6m before putting out branches. 

It is an invasive bamboo. Grow in contained barriers, or in pots and containers. An ideal option for tall screens and garden hedges.

General description

• Name: Phyllostachys parvifolia.
• Foliage: Evergreen
• Culm: Upright, woody thin-walled.
• Height: 8 - 12m, tall bamboo.
• Spread: Running bamboo, invasive.

Growth requirement

• Site: Part shade to full sun, temperate/subtropical bamboo
• Soil: Well-drained moist or damp soil.
• Hardiness: – 10 to –5 degrees Celsius.
• Use: Woodland forest, walkway, large garden hedge, tall privacy screen.

Different ways of growing running bamboo plants

How to propagate running bamboo Phyllostachys parvifolia?

In the UK, many growers use Rhizome Cuttings to propagate the running bamboo successfully. 

You can also use Culm Cuttings or Bamboo Seeds to propagate Phyllostachys parvifolia. 

Seeds are often hard to find because bamboos can flower once every 10 – 20 years. 

This bamboo, in particular, relies on wind pollination, unless it is hand-pollinated it can be really hard to get the seeds. 

If you are lucky to have a rare bamboo seed, take extra care to grow them. 

Check out this step-by-step guide on How to Grow Bamboo from Seeds.

Video Tips for propagating tall bamboo from seed

Buy Running Bamboo for screening and hedging

Phyllostachys parvifolia bamboo is an ideal privacy screen for apartments, balconies, porches or any small outdoor space. 

It is also an ideal garden hedge plant because you can prune the leaves and new shoots to give it a neat appearance. 

Here are some great places where you can buy the running bamboos for screening and hedging.

Running bamboo types similar to Phyllostachys parvifolia

Finding tall running bamboo at the local nursery or garden centre can be hard. 

Therefore we provide 5 alternative bamboos that are similar to the Phyllostachys parvifolia. 

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

Details for each bamboo can be found through the links provided, click for more information.

1. Green Bamboo Phyllostachys bissettii
2. Slender Weaver’s Bamboo Bambusa Gracilis
3. Edulis Moso Bamboo Phyllostachys pubescens
4. Giant Timber Bamboo Phyllostachys Bambusoides
5. Golden Chinese Bamboo Phyllostachys Vivax Aureocaulis

Tall Bamboo Phyllostachys Parvifolia Loves Shade and Full Sun

All in all, Phyllostachys parvifolia is a fantastic tall subtropical bamboo plant. 

This tall running bamboo is perfect for large ornamental gardens, woodland forests, walkways and tall privacy screens.

It will thrive in pots and containers where the soil is well-drained and moist. 

Find out HOW TO MAINTAIN BAMBOO PHYLLOSTACHYS PARVIFOLIA

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.

How to maintain invasive running bamboo Phyllostachys parvifolia

Running bamboo plants are resistant to harsh conditions. However, if you see that your running bamboo plants' leaves are turning yellow are dying, you must act fast to save them.

A little care and maintenance will save your plant from dying.

 

How to care for dying running bamboo?

The tall running bamboo is susceptible to frost, frozen soils and poor growing conditions. 

And especially, new plants will need attention to grow and establish themselves in the first and second years. 

 So, how can you care for the dying running bamboos? 

Often plants that come in pots have lots of water and tend to thrive on plant food in the nursery. 

It is perhaps important to check the soil if you have re-potted your bamboo. 

Importantly, ensure that there is good soil and that the growing pot is not waterlogged. This could be the main reason why the leaves are turning yellow. 

Another reason why your bamboo plants are dying can be attributed to the soil where the plants are growing. Check this article for the best soil for growing bamboo. 

If you are satisfied that you’ve done the right thing, but your bamboo is still dying the last option is to dig the whole plant and repot it. 

Also work out whether you’ve planted the bamboo in the right site - shade, part shade or sun. 

 You could potentially lose the whole plant if you do not do anything.

In most cases, bamboo yellowing and dying are due to poor soil, waterlogged area, unconducive weather or unsuitable site. 

How to maintain invasive running bamboo

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

For the best result, maintain your running bamboo, Phyllostachys parvifolia. 

Prune and add mulch when your plants grow big.

Prune bamboo

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 and getting bamboo sticks for use in the garden.

Add mulch to bamboo grove

Mulching is a highly recommended care and maintenance job. 

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

The bamboo leaves are fantastic mulch since they contain silicon which is naturally high in nitrogen. 

In addition, tree barks or other organic mulch rich in moisture are also good for bamboo plants.

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

Buy Running Bamboo for screening and hedging

Phyllostachys parvifolia bamboo is an ideal privacy screen for apartments, balconies, porches or any small outdoor space. 

It is also an ideal garden hedge plant because you can prune the leaves and new shoots to give it a neat appearance. 

Here are some great places where you can buy the running bamboos for screening and hedging.

How to Grow Edible bamboo Plants - Incense Bamboo

Bamboo shoots from a small group of bamboo are edible. If you are thinking of growing a bamboo plant and also enjoy the shoots, Incense bamboo is one great option.

It's a great bamboo that does well in waterlogged areas and produces new shoots in abundance. Check out the full info on Incense Bamboo.

 Phyllostachys atrovaginata (Incense Edible Bamboo)  

How to grow Incense Bamboo?

Plant in contained spaces

Phyllostachys atrovaginata is a massive plant to grow in pots and containers, but its edible shoots and scented leaves are adorable features many bamboo enthusiasts cannot ignore. 

Use large heavy-duty container pots to grow this timber bamboo. Note that the new shoots in the second, third and successive years will be reasonably taller than the first shoots. 

So, do not be surprised if your Phyllostachys atrovaginata is taller than an average Phyllostachys bamboo in the container pots. 

This running bamboo will definitely require repotting within 3 – 5 years.

Plant in the garden

Phyllostachys atrovaginata’s tall dark shoots, thick upright stems and distinct incense are excellent for creating a calm and serene atmosphere outdoors or in the garden. 

Also a preferable bamboo for large botanical gardens, woodland forests, walkways and tall privacy screens. 

Perhaps it's important to note that the Phyllostachys atrovaginata Incense Bamboo is an invasive Timber Bamboo. 

Therefore building a bamboo barrier prior to planting it in the garden is the best thing to do. Here are tips for building a Formidable Bamboo Barrier in the Garden. 

Unlike the other running and clumping bamboo, the Incense Bamboo can grow in soggy soil. 

This bamboo has long hollow (straw-like) roots that can penetrate deep into the soggy soil, and enable it to absorb vital nutrients it requires to survive. 

So, if you want to grow bamboo near a soggy site, the Phyllostachys atrovaginata is the ideal bamboo.

 

Large Bamboos for temperate and subtropical areas

Propagate Phyllostachys atrovaginata Incense Bamboo

By rhizome cuttings

In the UK, many growers use Rhizome Cuttings to propagate the running bamboo successfully. 

By seed propagation

You can also use Culm Cuttings or Bamboo Seeds to propagate Phyllostachys atrovaginata. 

Seeds are often hard to find because bamboos rarely flower. If you are lucky to have a rare bamboo seed, take extra care to grow them. 

Here is a step-by-step guide on How to Propagate Bamboos from Seeds. 

By air layering

Air layering is another technique used successfully to propagate temperate and subtropical large bamboo plants such as the Timber Bamboos. 

This is like budding, instead, put some garden compost under the bamboo branch and cover it to promote root growth before transplanting. 

Though we have not tried it yet, we have seen people doing it successfully in the US and Australia.

Yellow Canes with Green Stripes Bamboo Plants Phyllostachys flexuosa (Sinuate Bamboo)

Phyllostachys flexuosa is stunning bamboo with yellow and green culms, slender arching branches and evergreen foliage. Also known as Sinuate Bamboo or Qiuganzhu. 

Landscapers may find Phyllostachys flexuosa useful as this bamboo is low maintenance and ideal for privacy screening and hedging. 

It's an invasive running bamboo and therefore a root barrier should be used to contain its spread.

General description

• Name: Phyllostachys flexuosa, Sinuate Bamboo, Qiuganzhu.
• Foliage: Evergreen, slender leaves.
• Culm: Arching canes, yellow canes with green stripes.
• Height: 6 m, arching broad branches.
• Spread: Running bamboo, invasive.

Growth requirement

• Site: Part shade to full sun.
• Soil: Well-drained soil, moist.
• Hardiness: – 10 to –5 degrees Celsius, UK H4.
• Use: Screening, hedging – low maintenance plant but invasive.

Grow bamboo Phyllostachys flexuosa (Sinuate Bamboo)

Cultivate in contained spaces

Phyllostachys flexuosa can grow to 6 metres and spread 2 metres. 

It may not grow to its maximum height and spread when grown in contained spaces. 

Use large heavy-duty container pots to grow this timber bamboo. 

Note that the new shoots in the second, third and successive years will be reasonably taller than the first shoots. 

So, do not be surprised if your Phyllostachys flexuosa is taller than an average Phyllostachys bamboo in the container pots. 

This running bamboo will definitely require repotting within 3 – 5 years.

Cultivate in the garden

Phyllostachys flexuosa’s evergreen foliage, arching stems and elongated branches are ideal for creating a calm and serene atmosphere outdoors or in the garden. 

It is also a preferable bamboo for privacy screens and hedging. 

Perhaps it is important to note that the Phyllostachys flexuosa (Sinuate Bamboo) is an invasive bamboo, therefore building a bamboo barrier prior to planting it in the garden is the best thing to do. 

Like the other running bamboos, the Sinuate Bamboo prefers well-drained, moist soil. Read about the Best Soil for Growing Bamboo

Loam soil for growing bamboo cuttings

Propagate running bamboo Phyllostachys flexuosa

Many UK bamboo growers use Rhizome Cuttings to propagate the running bamboo successfully. 

You can also use Culm Cuttings or Bamboo Seeds to propagate Phyllostachys flexuosa. 

Seeds are often hard to find because bamboos rarely flower. 

If you are lucky to have a rare bamboo seed, take extra care to grow them. Here is the step-by-step guide on How to Grow Bamboo from Seeds.

Buy Phyllostachys Bamboos in the UK

Phyllostachys flexuosa bamboo is ideal for a mini bamboo forest, woodland, botanical garden or tall privacy screen. 

It is also edible bamboo, you can grow it in large heavy-duty container pots and enjoy the shoots. 

Here are some great places where you can buy the running and clumping bamboos in the UK. 

Buy Phyllostachys Bamboos in the UK

If the bamboo is not available, please contact the Garden Shops directly or message us and we'll be happy to help find it for you.

Bamboos similar to Phyllostachys flexuosa

Finding the right Phyllostachys Bamboo at the local nursery or garden centre can be tricky. We list 5 other bamboos that are similar to the ‘Phyllostachys flexuosa’. 

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

Details for each bamboo can be found through this link, click for more information.

1. Phyllostachys Parvifolia Running Bamboo
2. Golden Chinese Bamboo Vivax Aureocaulis
3. Edulis Moso Bamboo Phyllostachys Pubescens
4. Giant Timber Bamboo Phyllostachys Bambusoides
5. Black Bamboo Phyllostachys Nigra

Phyllostachys atrovaginata (Incense Edible Bamboo)

Phyllostachys flexuosa (Sinuate Bamboo, Qiuganzhu)

All in all, Phyllostachys flexuosa is a fantastic bamboo for privacy screens and hedging. 

Root barriers are necessary for growing this bamboo. 

Green and Yellow Stem Bamboo Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis

Bamboo Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis: This running bamboo is also known as the Ougon-kou Chiku or Kou-Chiku bamboo. 

There are two types Robert Young and Houzeua. 

Their culms are green and yellow. The former (Robert Young) has yellow culms with green vertical stripes whereas the latter (Houzeau) is green with contrasting yellow stripes. 

Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis is a stunning ornamental plant due to its appearance. 

At 4m average height, this bamboo is a great addition to woodland forests, large gardens and dense garden hedges. It is edible bamboo.

  

General description

• Name: Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis, Ougon-kou Chiku Bamboo, Kou-Chiku Bamboo
• Foliage: Evergreen, slender thick leaves.
• Culm: Green and yellow.
• Height: 4m, upright.
• Spread: Running bamboo, invasive.

Growth requirement

• Site: Part shade to full sun.
• Soil: Tolerates clay soil.
• Hardiness: – 17 degrees Celsius, hardy to UK zone 7.
• Use: Medium garden hedge, container plant, an individual woodland plant, edible – low maintenance bamboo but invasive.

Buy Phyllostachys Bamboos in the UK

The Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis has a distinctive upright growing habit and is hardy to -17 degrees Celsius – UK zone 7. 

This bamboo is probably one of the best choices for large pots and thick garden hedges. 

It is also an ideal bamboo for large gardens and woodland forests. Here are some great places where you can buy the Phyllostachys Bamboos in the UK. 

If the bamboo you are looking for is not available, please contact the Garden Shops directly or message us.

Grow bamboo Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis (Ougon-kou Chiku Bamboo)

Cultivate in contained spaces

Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis can grow to 4 metres, an ideal bamboo for woodlands or large gardens. 

This evergreen bamboo is better planted in a site where visitors can admire the contrasting green and yellow colours. 

Use large heavy-duty container pots to grow this Phyllostachys bamboo. It may not grow to its maximum height and spread when grown in contained spaces. 

New shoots in the second, third and successive years will be reasonably taller than the first shoots. So, do not be surprised if your Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis is taller than an average Phyllostachys bamboo in the container pots. 

This running bamboo will definitely require repotting within 3 – 5 years.

Cultivar for large garden and woodland

Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis’s evergreen foliage, upright bright stems and arching branches are ideal for thick garden hedge. 

The spectacular green and yellow colours on the large woody stems make this bamboo the ideal candidate for large gardens and woodland forests. 

Perhaps it is important to note that the Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis (Ougon-kou Chiku Bamboo ) is an invasive bamboo, therefore building a bamboo barrier prior to planting it in the garden is the best thing to do. 

The Ougon-kou Chiku Bamboo prefers well-drained, moist soil, but has been observed to do reasonably well in clay soils and high pH areas.

How to Propagate Running Bamboo Ougon-kou Chiku

Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis bamboo originates from Japan and China. 

In the UK, many bamboo nurseries and bamboo enthusiasts grow this cultivar from Rhizome Cuttings. 

You can also use Culm Cuttings or Bamboo Seeds to propagate Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis. 

However, bamboo seeds are often hard to find because bamboo rarely produces flowers. If you are lucky to have a rare bamboo seed, take extra care to grow them. 

This step-by-step guide on How to Grow Bamboo from Seeds will help you to grow bamboo from seeds successfully.

 

Bamboos similar to Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis

Below is a list of 5 other bamboos that are similar to the Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis. 

The similarities are based on height, spread and general appearances. 

If you want a bamboo that looks and behaves like the Viridis, check out these 5 bamboos. 

1. Phyllostachys rubromarginata Reddish bamboo 

2. Phyllostachys flexuosa Sinuate Bamboo 

3. Phyllostachys atrovaginata Incense Bamboo 

4. Phyllostachys Aurea Bamboo Cultivars 

5. Golden Groove Bamboo Spectabilis vs Aureocaulis

Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis (Ougon-kou Chiku Bamboo )

Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis is a stunning bamboo with contrasting green and yellow colours. 

This bamboo is ideal as a standalone plant in large gardens and woodlands or planted close together to provide a thick garden hedge.

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. 

We also provide tips and guides on how to provide the right care and maintenance for bamboo plants. 

See our work on Bamboo Care and Maintenance and download a free Guide to Growing Bamboo in the UK. 

We are also on YouTube – follow us for the latest on bamboo and sustainable products info.

How to grow red bamboo plants?

Red bamboo plants are a stunning group of plants, though not so common as the black bamboo plants. 

Most of the red bamboo plants are from the clumping variety. 

Check out these articles for the 5 best read bamboo plants that grow well in the UK, US, Canada, Australia and other parts of the temperate regions where there are four seasons.

Grow red bamboo plants in the garden

Bamboos are evergreen and long-lasting, best grown in sites where they’ll provide a permanent cover such as in the garden as ornamental plants, or along the boundary as hedges and privacy screens. 

The red bamboos are a standout. 

So, grow them somewhere obvious where you will admire them all year round. 

It is a good idea to use root barriers if you are growing the running red bamboo plants because this will stop them from spreading. 

Alternatively, grow them in pots. See below why growing bamboo plants in pots is a great idea.

Grow red bamboo plants pot?

The red bamboos are fantastic pot plants. Though these plants do not flower regularly, the red canes are naturally beautiful.

• Movable

Most bamboos in pots are not easy to move because they are large and heavy plants. 

The red bamboo plants will require additional help or tool to move them around, like this Hand Truck from B&Q. 

However, the great thing about growing bamboo in pots is that you CAN actually move and adjust the pots to your heart’s desire with a bit of help.

• Maintainable

Bamboos are undemanding plants. 

You can prune the culms and leave the greenery you want on the potted bamboos, and they’ll keep producing new shoots year on year. 

That is why they are great natural privacy plants.

• Protection

Bamboo plants are hardy and can withstand cold and frosts. 

Though they are generally tolerant to insects and bugs, the new shoots are susceptible to slug attacks. 

So, growing them in pots and elevating them above the ground is the best protection.

• Root barriers

The red running and clumping bamboos are either invasive or will expand at the base. 

Either use the large heavy pots or root barrier to stop them from spreading.

• Indoor and patio plants

Bamboos in pots can be used as natural screens for balconies, patios, porches, and verandas. 

They also provide a calm and relaxing atmosphere for the outdoor sitting areas and are good conversation starters when friends and family visit you. 

You can grow the red bamboo in the garden and use root barriers to stop them from spreading. 

Alternatively, you can use the pots to grow these bamboos. 

Either way, the red bamboos will give your garden and home a different but natural appearance.

Tall bamboo plants UK - How to Grow Them

The tall bamboos are an ideal option for a natural privacy hedge. 

These bamboos have thick foliage and are tall, best for screening unattractive features. 

Many gardeners and homeowners prefer garden bamboo hedges because they are fast-growing. 

The dense evergreen foliage, height, spread and hardiness give the garden and out spaces a natural green appearance all year round.

 

Tall bamboo plants for privacy hedging

At GardenBambooPlants, we feature over 70 running and clumping bamboos that you can grow in the garden or in pots. 

They come in different stem colours, sizes and heights. 

If you want a natural bamboo privacy hedge, check out these 5 tall running bamboos. They are 6m or more in height.

Upright, tall and large bamboos for privacy hedge

This category is an extension of the tall garden bamboo hedging screen listed above. 

Additionally, this extra list separates the tall and upright bamboo plants from the arching plants. 

Take it as an exclusive list of only the popular Phyllostachys running bamboo plants, except the clumping bamboo Standing Stone. 

As the name implies, upright bamboo plants tend to grow straight up. 

In fact, some can reach over 6 metres if the conditions are right

Many of the tall and upright bamboo plants do well when they are planted away from the direct wind, providing the best hedge screening all year round. 

Check out the bamboo for sale in the UK at crocus.co.uk.

How to grow tall bamboo plants

Here are three options for ensuring complete control over your garden hedging privacy screens.

• Build Raised-base: The raised base will help you to spot the rhizome tips and trim them before the tips creep into the small gaps in the pavement or the neighbour’s side.

• Dig narrow trench 0.3m to 0.5m deep: The running bamboo rhizomes tend to grow on the top layer of the soil. As the name implies, the rhizomes are running horizontally, not deep into the soil. A narrow trench will help you to monitor the rhizomes and trim them as they grow out. The narrow trench acts as an open root barrier.

• Plant the bamboo in large pots: If you are growing bamboo plants for balcony privacy screening, plant them in large pots or containers. This is the best way to contain the bamboo.

Guide for selecting the right garden bamboo hedging screen

So we have covered many tips and ideas and presented several suggestions for selecting bamboo for hedging garden screens. 

Here is the 'Guide' to help you make your decision! 

 Note that the questions are structured especially for you to eliminate the undesirable bamboo plants, leaving only the best option for you. 

Download the PDF version - Guide for Selecting Garden Hedging Bamboo.

Quick links to bamboo plants for privacy and hedging

So, 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 and garden hedge.

• Award Winners Best Features
• Bamboo plants for balcony privacy
• Small Bamboo Plants for Privacy 0.5m-4m
• Why are umbrella bamboos the best living privacy covers?
• Medium height bamboos for natural privacy screens 4-6 metres

Where to buy tall bamboo plants?

The tall bamboo plants are great for creating a tall living screen for privacy. 

They come in different sizes and colours, too. 

Here are reliable UK retailers that sell bamboo plants and get them delivered to you.

Tall bamboo privacy hedge

The tall bamboo plants are tall plants. They are a great option for tall privacy hedges.