Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda (18/11/2012, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Dappled shade
Flowering period: N/A
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 6m
Eventual Spread: 8m
Hardiness: 7b – 9b
Family: Poaceae
Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda is a large, vigorous evergreen bamboo with an arching and spreading habit. Its mid green leaves are linear, up to 14cm long and 12mm broad. Its culms are light green, solid in cross section, up to 3cm in diameter, with large ‘knuckles’ at each node. Its roots are rhizomes which aids its spread.
Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda Stem (18/11/2012, Kew Gardens, London)
Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda, commonly known as the Chinese Walking Stick, is native to central China. Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda is synonymous with Qiongzhuea tumidissinoda. In its native habitat it grows in forests. It was introduced into the UK in 1987.
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. Tumidissinoda is derived from the Latin tumidus meaning ‘swollen’ and sino meaning ‘to allow’.
The landscape architect may find Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda useful. It prefers a sheltered location. Care should be exercised when specifying this bamboo as it will spread.
Ecologically, Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda is of little value to UK wildlife.
Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It prefers an acidic to neutral pH of soil.
Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda Leaf (18/11/2012, Kew Gardens, London)
Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda 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.
