Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys Nigra)

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Categorized as: Bamboo,Ornamental Grass

April 26, 2010 | 8744 Views | 1 Comments

Phyllostachys nigra, a native of China, is one of the most popular choices of ornamental bamboo in both the United States and Asia. The culms start out green in color, eventually becoming completely black - making for a great backdrop to all that green foliage in the garden. Plants look good growing with shrubs, particularly evergreens in a large border or foliage garden, but can also be grown as a single clump in a lawn. The dark culms contrast with the light green leaves, making this species especially eye catching in the garden. The canes typically reach a width of about 2" when mature.

Family: Poaceae
Genus: Phyllostachys
Species: Nigra
Cultivar: None Identified

Hardiness:

USDA Zone 7a: to 0 °F
USDA Zone 7b: to 5 °F
USDA Zone 8a: to 10 °F
USDA Zone 8b: to 15 °F
USDA Zone 9a: to 20 °F
USDA Zone 9b: to 25 °F

Height:

15-20 ft.
20-30 ft.

Light Exposure:

Full Sun
10% to 40% Shade

Growth Rate:

Very Fast
Fast

It typically takes 2-3 years for the culms to take on this jet black color. The progression from green to black usually starts at the nodal ridge, eventually working its way to the center of the internode. The culms are somewhat thin, and have a tendency to arch or bend outward when growing.

Response by: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on 08/08/2011 at 08:38 PM

Please if you could help me out I have created an internal garden inside my home and would love to plant black bamboo in it. Does this bamboo destroy foundations also can it grow without direct sunshine but will get plenty of light.

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