Giant Timber Bamboo
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

In the U.S., normally gets 30-45' tall and wide, or to 60-70' in China. Mature culm diameter of 3-4', or to 5" in Florida, China and Japan. In the U.S., expect culm heights of 40-60' in Zones 7-10. In Zone 6, height is usually 30'. Rapid growth rate. Reaches maximum size the fastest of all large bamboos. Forms a large grove quicker than other timber bamboos. Shoots can grow a foot or more per day!

Native Range

Phyllostachys species are native to China, Burma and India. This species is from China.

Flower and Fruit Details

Usually does not flower. Most Phyllostachys only flower once every 50 years.

Leaf and Bark Features

Elegant, deep green, drooping foliage set this bamboo apart from a distance. Leaves are large and broad. Colorful sheath blades on new shoots are often mixed colors of green, yellow, red and purple. New shoots emerging from ground are often purplish-black in color, mixed with green and brown, and very pointed. Sheaths are creamy buff color w/ brown spotting. Bamboos don't have bark or trunks, they have culms, which are hollow, jointed stems, sometimes called canes, that grow very fast. Culms of Giant Timber Bamboo are bright green, becoming more yellow, with white nodes. Cane sections are slightly offset.

Culture and Care

Hardy to -5 degrees F, possibly to -10. Zone 6-10. Root pruning may be needed to contain this aggressive bamboo. Sun to shade. Very aggressive in full sun. Handles salt spray well along roadsides and coastal areas. Grows well in limited growing space. No serious insect or disease pests. Occasional aphids and spider mites possible.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

Edible shoots. Produces tall, thick canes even when given limited growing space. 4-season interest: Spring, summer, fall & winter. Culms have thin walls, and not very strong. Heavy rains and wind, ice and snow can fracture or break off the culms, snapping them in half. So don't plant near walkways or roads where this could be a hazard. Shoots are excellent for eating and are free of bitterness.

Suggested Uses

Makes a good vertical screen. Edible shoots.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA