Phyllostachys nigra (Black Bamboo, Whangee cane, Kuro-chiku)
Botanical Information
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Phyllostachys |
| Species | nigra |
| Category | Woody |
| Origin | Eastern and Central China. |
| Ethnobotanical Uses Disclaimer | A translucent white substance taken from the nodal joints of some species of bamboo, called tabasheer or bamboo silica, is used in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. It also plays a role in traditional Chinese medicine. It is composed of silica and water with traces of lime and potash. |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 7 |
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canadian Hardiness Zone | 6b - 7a |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H6 - H5 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Temperature (°C) | -15 - (-9) |
| Temperature (°F) | 0 - 10 |
| Height | 2.5 - 4 m |
| Spread | 1.5 - 2.5 m |
| Growth | Fast |
Description and Growing Information
| General Description | Tall, clump-forming evergreen bamboo with thin, arching canes. |
| Shape | Clumps of long, thin culms. |
| Propagation | Propagate through large divisions in spring, transferring directly to the new site and misting or drenching often until fully established. |
| Cultivation | Plant in rich, damp soil in an area that is sheltered from harsh winds and prolonged exposure to frost. Best in full sun or partial shade, and requires heavy feeding when active. |
| Pests | Generally pest and disease free. |
| Bark/Stem Description | Culms are green at first, typically turning shining black in the second or third year, and have a white waxy powder below the nodes. |
| Leaf Description | Leaves are 4-13 x 0.8-1.8 cm, thin and glabrous with small, downy ligules. |
Photographs
Phyllostachys nigra f. henonis
Phyllostachys nigra 'Megurochiku'
Awards
