Thamnocalamus aristatus

Common Name:

Plant Type:
Bamboo
Family:
Poaceae (The Grass Family)
Geographic Origin:
Japan and East Asia
California Native?:
No

Plant Size:
To 8-12 feet
Landscape/Garden Uses:
screens
Flowering Season:
Seldom produced

Flower Color:
Not applicable
Exposure:
Sun or light shade
Soils:
Most soils

Suggested Irrigation:
Moderate watering
Estimated Hardiness:
Hardy to 15 degrees F. or less

Forming erect, narrow thickets, this unusual clumping bamboo has slender stems that are openly branched, growing 8-15 feet high. The lower stems are exposed and show close-lying, pale bracts against a light green background. They take on an attractive reddish cast in the sun. The upper portions display sprays of dark, narrow 3-5 inch leaves. Useful for individual display, screens and hedges, it will thrive in sun or shade near the coast, part shade inland, in any reasonably well drained soil, with moderate watering. Hardy to 15 degrees F. or less.