Phyllostachys atrovaginata stem (12/11/2011, Kew, London)
Position: Full Sun
Flowering period: N/A
Soil: Humus rich, moist
Eventual Height: 10m
Eventual Spread: 6m
Hardiness: USDA Zones 7b – 11
Family: Poaceae
Phyllostachys atrovaginata is a large, vigorous, spreading, evergreen bamboo with a upright, stiff growing habit. The leaves of the plant are lance shaped, glossy, dark green and quite stiff. New shoots typically emerge in April and have a unique wavy pattern. The plant has large diameter (compared to it’s height) culms (stems), these are up to 7cm. The culms are upright, green and emit a light fragrance similar to Sandalwood when rubbed. It has a prominent groove called a sulcus that runs along the length of each segment. The roots of this bamboo contains air chanels which allow it grow in wet soils. This plant spreads by underground rhizomes.
Phyllostachys atrovaginata, commonly known as the Incense Bamboo, is synonymous with Phyllostachys congesta. It is assumed to be native to China, although it’s exact origins remain unknown. The shoots of this bamboo are edible and are said to the best tasting in the world.
The etymological root of the binomial name Phyllostachys is derived from the Greek phyllon ‘leaf’ and stachys ‘spike’. Atrovaginata is derived from the Latin meaning ‘with a black sheath’.
Phyllostachys atrovaginata (12/11/2011, Kew, London)
Phyllostachys atrovaginata may be useful to the landscape architect as an attractive screening or informal hedging plant. It is also a useful back foil for other plants. It is suitable for growing in waterlogged soils.
P. atrovaginata prefers humus rich, moist soil. Can tolerate most soil pH levels. This plant is adapted to cope with wet or soggy soils.
Maintenance: This plant requires little maintenance. This plant my be propagated by splitting the rhizomes.
