Chimonobambusa quadrangularis (30/11/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Dappled shade to shade
Flowering period: N/A
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 3m
Eventual Spread: 6m
Hardiness: 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Family: Poaceae
Chimonobambusa quadrangularis is a vigorous evergreen bamboo with an arching and spreading habit. Its mid green glossy leaves are linear with entire margins, up to 25cm long and 2cm broad. Its culms are grey/ green, almost square in cross section. Its roots are rhizomes which aids its spread.
Chimonobambusa quadrangularis, commonly known as the Square Stemmed Bamboo or Square Bamboo, is native to south east China. In its native habitat it grows in forests.
The etymological root of the binomial name Chimonobambusa is derived from the Greek xeimwn meaning ‘winter’ and Bambusa, an erroneous pronunciation of the Indian word Mambu.Quadrangularis is derived from the Latin quatour meaning ‘four’ and angulus meaning ‘angle’.
The landscape architect may find Chimonobambusa quadrangularis useful as an attractive clump forming bamboo. Care should be exercised when specifying this bamboo as it will spread.
Ecologically, Chimonobambusa quadrangularis is of little value to UK wildlife.
Chimonobambusa quadrangularis Leaf (30/11/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Chimonobambusa quadrangularis prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil. It dislikes dry soils.
Chimonobambusa quadrangularis requires little maintenance. The removal of runners may be necessary to contain this bamboo. Root barrier may be installed at its planting to contain this bamboo.
