Indocalamus latifolius (30/11/14, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Flowering period: N/A
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 3m
Eventual Spread: 2m
Hardiness: 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Family: Poaceae
Indocalamus latifolius is an evergreen bamboo with an erect habit. Its mid green leaves are linear with entire margins, up to 30cm long and 5cm broad. Its canes may achieve a diameter of up to 15mm. Its roots are rhizome which enables its slow spread.
Indocalamus latifolius, commonly known as Broadleaf Bamboo, is native to east China. In its native habitat it grows on mountain slopes and valleys.
The etymological root of the binomial name Indocalamus is derived from the Latin Indus meaning ‘India’ and kalamos meaning ‘reed’. Latifolius is derived from the Latin latus meaning ‘wide’ and folium meaning ‘leaf’.
The landscape architect may find Indocalamus latifolius useful as an evergreen screening bamboo.
Indocalamus latifolius Leaf (30/11/14, Kew Gardens, London)
Ecologically, Indocalamus latifolius is of little UK value.
Indocalamus latifolius prefers moist, humus rich, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil.
Indocalamus latifolius requires little maintenance.