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.

How to Identify Running Bamboo Plants?

In this article, you’ll find out how to successfully identify the common running bamboo cultivars. 

This group of bamboo is common in the temperate region and includes the Phyllostachys and Pleioblastus bamboos. 

The common bamboos that grow in the UK, US, Canada and Australia are grouped into either clumping or running bamboo plants.

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

How to identify running bamboo?

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

However, it is also best to know their standout features. So, what is running bamboo and how can bamboo growers identify it? 

Generally, a running bamboo has ‘running rhizomes’. The rhizomes are underground stems that grow (or run) along the ground, hence the name running bamboos or runners. 

It is quite challenging to identify the exact type of running bamboo unless you have enough time, botanical knowledge and are curious to find out. 

Also, it can be tricky to identify most of the bamboo cultivars by their appearances.

To help you, here are 5 rhizome facts for beginners to use when selecting a running bamboo or identifying them.

Find out about the advantages and disadvantages of growing running bamboo plants. 

5 distinct parts of a running bamboo

For any beginner bamboo grower, the 5 distinct parts will help you work out if the bamboo is a runner or not. 

Pay particular attention to the area where the culms meet the rhizomes. 

1. Rhizomes: the running rhizomes are long and thin with long pointy tips.
2. Rhizome internodes: The underground internodes are hollow and long.
3. Shoots and tips: The new shoots and rhizome tips grow from dormant rhizome buds on the rhizome nodes, often further away from the parent bamboo.
4. Base buds: These buds are potential new shoots and rhizomes (in 3) and are spaced further apart unlike the buds in clumping bamboos.
5. Culms: The culms (also called the stems or canes) are much thicker in diameter than the rhizome from which they grow.

Diagram of the parts of a running bamboo plant

Parts of a Running Bamboo

  Running bamboos have running rhizomes

All in all, the bamboo rhizomes and underground parts are vital for identifying a bamboo as clump-forming or running. 

So, take a closer look at the rhizome of bamboo to work out if it is running bamboo or not.

Read about How to Identify a Clumping Bamboo using a similar 5-point identification strategy. 

As mentioned, look closely at the parts that are underground, especially the areas around the rhizome of the running bamboo. 

This is because it literally gets its name from the habits of its rhizomes – running! 

One way to know the different parts is to use the diagram as a reference point. 

Alternatively, read to this article, it gives a clear comparison of the parts of running vs running bamboo.

Where to buy running bamboos?

We work with some big UK’s home and garden brands. 

Check out the links to go straight to their website where you can find out the bamboo collections and read more about each one.

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

Identifying runners and clumpers

The Phyllostachys nigra Black Bamboo, though an invasive bamboo, can also behave like clumping bamboo in the cooler temperate area of the UK, US, Canada and Australia. 

Like other running bamboos, the Black Bamboo can spread quickly if left unchecked. 

Here is how and when to provide the right care they may need. 

Furthermore, such occurrence shows that some of the common bamboo species can be tricky to identify. 

So, pay closer attention to the parts of the bamboo around the joint where the culm meets the rhizome. 

 Phyllostachys nigra running bamboo (It also behaves as clumping bamboo)

Identify bamboo successfully

The 5 facts will help you to identify the running bamboos successfully. 

They are based around the rhizomes and determine the growing habit of these stunning bamboos. 

Knowing the parts and their general behaviours cab be useful when finding out about bamboo that you want to buy or have inherited. 

If you have any questions or cannot find what you are looking for, leave a comment and we will get back to 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.

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.

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.

Care for clumping bamboo Fargesia murielae 'Ivory Ibis'

The well-established Ivory Ibis bamboo is hardy and can tolerate cold winters. Also, this bamboo can also withstand drought, but it will not survive prolonged dry spells. 

Its hardiness and drought resistance make this bamboo an excellent pot plant for roof terraces or apartments and other small outdoor spaces. 

Newly potted Ivory Ibis bamboo will require a good amount of water. 

Also, ensure that the soil remains moist but well-drained until the new plant has rooted; and new shoots have grown into matured culms.

Find out more about this clumping bamboo, its features and growing habits.

 Bamboos are great pot & container plants

Propagate Fargesia murielae 'Ivory Ibis'

To propagate new Ivory Ibis bamboo, separate the clump base into several divisions and grow them in propagation pots before planting them in pots or in the garden. 

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

The bamboo’s clump base will expand within 4 – 5 years. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the natural screen and greenery this bamboo provides.

Care & maintenance

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

The 6 pointers below put in perspective what you can do to ensure that your clumping bamboo, Fargesia murielae ‘Ivory Ibis’, remains healthy.

• Thinning bamboo plants once or twice a year to promote new growths and keep the plant under control. Selectively trim the old culms and new shoots that you do not want within the bamboo grove.

• 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 get bamboo sticks for use in the garden.

• 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 ‘Ivory Ibis’ or expecting fresh growth in Spring, always add Slug and Snail Pellets to protect them.

• Bamboos may not need fertilisers regularly, but the old plants will benefit from the added nutrients. The NPK fertilisers or any that is high in nitrogen are ideal options.

• Mulching bamboo plant 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.

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. 

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.

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.

10 Examples of Using Bamboo Plants and Bamboo Canes

Garden bamboo plants have special properties and structural compositions that are beneficial to gardeners and homeowners. 

Find out about the 10 examples to Use Bamboo Plants and Bamboo Canes in the Garden.

Uses of bamboo plants and bamboo canes

The bamboos are evergreen, hardy and tolerant to pests and diseases, and come in different sizes, colours and shapes. 

Their leaves, culms and roots have been used as home remedies, stimulants, home décor and garden sticks. 

 The benefits and uses are unlimited! Here are 10 examples of using Bamboo Plants and Bamboo Canes.

1. Greenery all year round

Bamboos are evergreen. 

This is probably the most common benefit of bamboo plants, especially for garden hedges and natural privacy screens. 

The fact that they stay green all year round and are fast-growing makes them the best natural screens. 

Bamboo foliage does not fall off in Autumn, even in very cold weather conditions. 

Some plants will remain green even at minus 20 degrees Celsius. 

They are the best natural plants for screening unsightly features.

Bamboos you can grow for green cover all year round, hardy and tolerate very cold weather: Tall bamboo plants for garden hedging and privacy (multiple plants)

2. Stop topsoil erosion

There are two types of bamboo plants – running and clumping. 

Both bamboo plants have strong rooting systems composed of rhizomes, base buds and root hairs. 

The network of underground roots is firm and can stabilise loose soil, stopping it from being washed away by running rain (or drain) water.

Bamboos you can grow for stopping topsoil erosion: Clumping bamboo plants (multiple)  

3. Provide thick natural fence walls

Bamboo culms tend to grow in clusters, especially those of the clumping bamboos. 

They form thick walls and are good natural fences when planted close together. 

Note that the clumping bamboos do not spread like their running cousins. 

Grow the clumping bamboo along the boundary for the natural wall fence.

Here is a comparison of running vs clumping bamboo for natural wall fences.

4. Edible bamboo shoots

Only a few bamboos are edible. You can grow them and enjoy the new shoots. 

Here are some edible bamboo plants that you can actually grow, harvest and eat.

Edible bamboos: Bamboo Phyllostachys Sulphurea Viridis  and Phyllostachys flexuosa Sinuate Bamboo and Phyllostachys atrovaginata Incense Bamboo

5. Use bamboo leaves mulch

The leaves are a great source of Silica which is beneficial to plants. 

The mulch from the bamboo leaves can protect the plants from frost in Winter and preserve moisture in Summer. 

The decomposing leaves are a source of fertiliser for the plants. The three bamboo plants below have broad and elongated leaves which can be pruned.

Best bamboo for mulch: Fargesia Robusta Wolong Broad Leaf Bamboo, Fargesia murielae Ivory Ibis clumping bamboo and Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard.

 

6. Bamboo Canes for garden and pot plants

One of the best things about growing bamboo is that you can use bamboo canes for staking plants, garden frames and trellis to support creeping plants like the runner beans.

We covered the home and garden uses of bamboo canes extensively in this article – take a look: Bamboo plants for sticks.

7. Use bamboo sheaths, branches and sticks for arts and crafts

Bamboo sheaths, branches and sticks are great for DIY arts and crafts because they are thin, tough and bendable. You can create any shape with them. 

 The uses are limitless, it depends on your creativity. 

For example, the bamboo sheaths can be cut to make windmills and the sticks used for making mini rafts (Below is a video of mini rafts we built out of bamboo canes and had lots of fun with). 

Adult supervision will be required when cutting the bamboo sheaths and sticks.

Bamboos you can grow for sheaths and sticks: Fargesia Blue Dragon Papyrifera Borinda and Fargesia Borinda Angustissima Frosty Bamboo

 

 

8. Used for making drinking water cups, mugs and storage tubes

The timber bamboo plants have a lot of uses, including some of the large varieties of Phyllostachys bamboo. 

The thick and hollow bamboo segments are perfect for making water storage like bamboo cups, mugs, and pencils storage.

Large timber bamboos: Timber Bamboo Phyllostachys Bambusoides and Moso Timber bamboo

9. Make musical wind instruments

Bamboo instruments have been used for thousands of years in ancient China and parts of the South Pacific region. 

They are great wind instruments and can be easily made from common bamboo that is common in the UK. 

 The bamboo flutes, bamboo harps and wind chimes are some examples. 

Our YouTube video shows the use of a bamboo harp in traditional storytelling in the Pacific.

Long internode and hollow culm bamboos: Phyllostachys Bissettii and Phyllostachys Vivax

10. Use bamboo to make grow pots and seed-trays

Bamboo pots and trays are eco-friendly substitutes for plastic seed pots and grow trays. They are reusable, you can use them for many years.

 Bamboo products are biodegradable and will break down within 3 – 5 years and turn into soil. 

Here is a step-by-step guide for making your own bamboo seed propagators. 

Giant timber bamboo plants for seed propagator pots and trays: Timber Bamboo Phyllostachys Bambusoides and Moso Timber bamboo

Benefits of bamboo plants: pros and cons

Apart from the 10 uses of bamboo, they have been used extensively to make tea, wine, beers, vinegar and many natural home remedies. 

However, there are special bamboos that are fit for these purposes, and not all bamboo plants are useful. 

Some bamboos have little hairy spikes on the sheaths that can make skin itch. 

Many have tough culms that are razor sharp. Others are invasive. 

And not all bamboos are edible. 

Therefore, though there are many benefits of bamboo plants, you have to know what kind of bamboo you should grow. 

Selecting the right bamboo plant to grow is the first thing to think about.

Common Phyllostachys and Fargesia bamboos

Here at GardenBambooPlants.com, we featured over 70 bamboo plants that thrive in the UK weather. The suggestions above will help you to find the right plant. 

At gardenbambooplants.com, we feature these bamboos because they can grow in the warmer parts of the UK. 

We also know that bamboo seeds and cuttings are often hard to get. One suggestion is to contact the plant's nurseries, garden centres or online retailers and ask for the particular plants that you are looking for. 

You can also leave a message below to let us know about your requirements and we'll get back to you as soon as we can. 

Check out these renowned UK home and garden retailers to get bamboo and bamboo supplies.

What do you think about the 10 examples of using Bamboo Plants and Bamboo Canes?

The 10 benefits of bamboos are a guide to the uses of these unique plants. 

There are many uses and benefits of these plants. 

We compiled this list based on our work with bamboos. 

We hope that it will inspire you to be creative as you unravel the many benefits of these fantastic plants.

Leave a comment and let us know what you think.

10 reasons why bamboo is sustainable material

The sustainability of the bamboos is very much attributed to several factors. 

The two standout factors are the fast-growing nature of the plants; and less energy consumption in the manufacturing of bamboo-based products. 

Read on to find out why bamboo produces sustainable materials for homes and gardens.

Are bamboos sustainable?

Here are 10 facts about bamboo plants and what makes them sustainable plants.

1. Bamboos are fast-growing plants

A single bamboo plant, on average, can produce 4 to 5 times more products compared to a tree because they grow fast. 

Bamboo plants will grow from new plants or regenerate from old plants. 

It can take less than 5 years before harvesting whereas a tree will take 20 - 30 years, even more.

That means that the supply can sustain the demand for bamboo products and accessories.

2. Bamboo manufacturing uses less energy

It takes less energy to make bamboo products like the toothbrush as compared to the plastic toothbrush. 

The raw material (petroleum) need to make plastic products uses a lot of energy to extract, transport and converted into plastic. 

But bamboos, are simply harvested, prepared and converted to usable items.

In fact, the manufacturing process of bamboo products is less intensive.

 

Read more about the Kitchen Accessories

3. Bamboo plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) fast

Living bamboos use CO2 to grow. So, as fast-growing plants, they absorb more CO2 in less time than trees and other plants.

An acre of a bamboo garden can absorb more CO2 than an average acre of trees and or meadow.

4. Bamboo plants produce more oxygen

Attributed to the fast rate of growth, bamboo plants produce more oxygen compared to an average tree. 

These plants are evergreen and also remain photosynthetically actively all throughout the year.

On average, they release more oxygen and absorb more CO2 than the trees.

5. Bamboo products are flexible and durable

Products made from bamboo are tough, flexible and durable. 

The fibres can tolerate temperatures up to 100 degrees Celsius.

The products made of bamboo will last a long time.

6. Bamboo products are safe and hygienic

Bamboo-based products are naturally tolerant to pests and diseases because they have antibacterial properties in their fibres.

This often prevents the growth of moulds, bacteria and other microbes.

7. Bamboos are great garden plants

Bamboo plants tend to grow in clusters forming thick evergreen bushes. 

In addition to absorbing CO2 and producing oxygen, they provide habitats for other insects and animals.

They are also great plants for garden mulch, hedges, natural screens and for stopping water from washing off the topsoil.

8. Bamboos regenerate from parent plants

One of the things about bamboos less mentioned is the fact that these plants can regenerate from the parent plants.

The growth pattern is such that the new bamboos are going to be taller than the previous ones. 

So, when old plants are cut and used, new and healthy plants will quickly grow to replace them.

This can take less than 3 - 5 years for these new bamboo plants to reach maturity, unlike the tree which can take 20 - 30 years (or even more) before they are ready.

9. Is bamboo a tree or grass?

Bamboo plants are grass. 

They have underground stems (running bamboos) and base clumps (clumping bamboo, unlike the trees and shrubs.

The main difference between a tree and bamboo as the grass is in the parts of the plant. 

Bamboo plants have features of common grass.

10. Is bamboo monocarpic or polycarpic?

Bamboo is a Monocarpic plant. It can take several years before a bamboo plant produces flowers.

A Polycarpic Plant produces flowers several times a year. So bamboo is not Polycarpic, but a Monocarpic plant.

Though bamboo Monocarpic plant, it can be propagated in many different ways - that is why it is highly sustainable.

Benefits of garden bamboo plants

The garden bamboos have special properties that are beneficial to gardeners and homeowners. 

In an earlier article, we discuss the benefits of these plants, and in particular, the benefits of the Phyllostachys and Fargesia bamboos.

We hope that it will inspire you to be creative as you unravel the many benefits of these fantastic plants.

Aside from the 8 facts, there are many benefits of living bamboo plants. 

Bamboos have a high tolerance to pests and diseases due to the presence of special antibacterial properties in bamboo fibres.

All in all, bamboo plants can grow and also regenerate from their parent plants very quickly. 

They are useful garden plants as well as the best alternatives to trees and plastics.

How to identify non-invasive bamboo plants?

What is invasive bamboo and how can identify the non-invasive clumping bamboo plants? 

There are several ways to look at it, but the easiest way to identify a bamboo as clumping or running is to look at the structure and formation of the base.

Related articles:

• WHAT BAMBOO TO GROW - CLUMPING OR RUNNING?
• NON-INVASIVE BAMBOO PLANTS UK - WHAT ARE THEY?

 

How to identify clumping bamboo?

The clumping bamboo and running bamboo plants have distinct rooting systems, which make it easy, to identify them. We cover the parts of clumping bamboo in this article. 

We also identified the pros and cons of growing the invasive running bamboos, and what you can do to contain them. 

More info here – Should You Grow Running Bamboos? 

This group of bamboos have compact rhizomes that often form dense clumps, hence the name clumping or clump-forming bamboo. 

In fact, the rhizomes determine whether bamboo is invasive or non-invasive. 

So, take a closer look at the rhizomes to work out if it is clumping or running bamboo. 

This video shows the base of a clumping bamboo - the Buddha Belly Bamboo

Base of a running bamboo - the Phyllostachys aurea (Fishpole bamboo)

Best ways to know your bamboo plants

These evergreen, fast-growing plants are amazing. 

Whether you the clumping or running bamboo, these articles will help you to identify them. 

• WHAT BAMBOO TO GROW - CLUMPING OR RUNNING?
• NON-INVASIVE BAMBOO PLANTS UK - WHAT ARE THEY?

 

What bamboo plants to grow in pots?

Bamboos are great standalone plants. 

They’ll look absolutely beautiful in pots. You can grow bamboo in pots for both running and clumping varieties.

Let’s have a look at what bamboos you can grow in pots, and their advantages and disadvantages.

How to find the best bamboo for pots?

Most of the bamboo on gardenbambooplant.com are suitable for pots. We list over 100 bamboo plants that thrive in the UK. 

Each bamboo in the list is chosen based on its recommended uses, growth requirements and special features. 

We identified the features so that you can find the best bamboo for pots and in shade, part-shade or sun.  

Use the tips to identify the right bamboo.

What bamboo to grow in pots

We arranged most of them into groups to make it easy for our visitors. Here are some bamboos that you can grow in pots.

• Yellow bamboo plants
• Red Clumping Bamboo Plants
• Chinese Dwarf Bamboo Plants
• Bamboos that grow well in shade
• Bamboo plants for balcony screening
• Small bamboo < 1 metre for garden hedges
• Variegated Running and Clumping Bamboo plants

Bamboo propagated from rhizome cuttings

How to grow bamboo in pots?

The bamboos’ spread, height and other growth requirements are based on garden conditions, therefore, they will NOT grow to the specifications when in pots. 

As a rule of thumb, estimate a growth specification of 50%-75%. For example, a bamboo that grows to a height of 2 metres in the garden condition will grow to a height of 1.5 metres in the pot. 

 Ideally, use large heavy-duty pots. Remember that the size of the pots will determine how often to re-pot the bamboo. 

The larger the better. 

Smaller pots will require re-potting in less than two years given how fast bamboos grow. 

Check out this article for more information on how to grow bamboo in pots.

What pots to grow bamboo?

Bamboos are tough plants but are responsive to prolonged heat and waterlogged areas. Avoid using metal and ceramic pots. 

These materials store heat which can affect the underground parts due to heat exposure during the warm summer months. 

Your bamboo should be okay if you use a pot that does not store heat. 

Heavy-duty plastic pots, treated wood planters, or resin containers and planters will do the job. Another important factor is drainage. 

Use well-drained pots to grow bamboo plants. Avoid any pot that has poor drainage. 

The pots should be well-drained so that not too much water is lost in warmer months, and is not waterlogged when it rains.

What are the advantages of growing bamboo in pots?

Bamboo in pots offers tranquillity and creates a calming atmosphere both indoors and outdoors. 

You can grow both the running and clumping bamboos in pots, move them around and create an ideal home and garden space. 

The clumping bamboos are fantastic for large pots, while they prevent running bamboo rhizomes from spreading. 

They also offer flexibility for moving them around. For example, they can be given as presents or moved indoors to decorate patios, balconies and porches.

What are the disadvantages of growing bamboo in pots?

The main worry about growing bamboo is the invasiveness. 

More so, it requires ongoing care and maintenance such as pruning, thinning and re-potting. 

Pots are great barriers when it comes to stopping bamboo from invading other spaces.

Growing bamboos in pots

The advantages of growing bamboo in pots far outweigh the disadvantages. 

The pots are great barriers when growing bamboo plants. So, use large heavy-duty plastic pots. 

They are best for growing bamboo plants. There is no limit to what bamboo you can grow in pots. 

You can grow both varieties and enjoy the evergreen plants all year round.

Conclusion (Can you grow bamboo in pots?)

Both running and clumping bamboos are amazing pot plants. Hope the related articles give you an idea about what bamboo you can grow in pots. 

Comment and let us know what you think. 

You can also follow us on YouTube and see our latest work in the Bamboo Garden.