Sweet Peas bamboo stakes and trellis netting

The wonderful thing about Sweet Pea flowers is that you must cut them to get more back! It’s an endless supply of flowers for your home over the spring and summer. They also need little space to grow 2 metres tall! Can be grown in containers. Plus the seeds are cheap!

The vining sweet peas are more rewarding and their longer flower stalks are perfect for flower arrangements. 

Sweet peas bamboo stakes

You can also plant sweet peas in containers to adorn your sunny balcony or patio. Here, you will need bamboo stakes or some sort of trellising to direct vertical growth. 

Sweet Peas and bamboo sticks are a match made in heaven.

Sweet peas trellis netting

Trellis netting is also an option regardless of where your sweet peas are planted. 

If you want to do yourself a favour and give your family a gift, procure a few packets of sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus) seeds.

For an investment of a few dollars, you will have sweet pea flowers for many months. Flower colours include every sort of pink, red, burgundy, bronze, blue, lavender, lilac, pink, and white. 

Sweet pea seeds

An added bonus of sweet peas is their seeds, which are easily harvested from brown pods produced next spring or summer. Furthermore, sweet pea seeds are easy to plant owing to their large size. 

In the manner of all large seeds, however, soak them in water prior to planting for 24 hours or germination may be inhibited. 

Sweet peas flowering

When the plants begin to bloom in late winter or early spring, remove flowers as soon as they fade to keep your sweet peas flowering. 

Are sweet peas toxic?

Sweet peas seeds are not edible. 

Removing the flowers will prevent sweet pea seeds from forming which are toxic, even if it means you will have to forego the harvest of seeds for next year’s planting.

7 Best Fargesia Murielae Nitida Bamboo Plants [CHINESE FOUNTAIN BAMBOO]

Fargesia murielae nitida bamboo (commonly known as the Chinese Fountain Bamboo or Blue Fountain) is a fantastic plant for shade, part-shade and sun. 

A Fargesia nitida grove has thick foliage that resembles mushrooms or ‘water fountains’ that is why they are called the fountain bamboo plants.

The stems often have different colours from red, pink, and purple to green.

A spectacular non-invasive bamboo plant, it will not send its shoots away from the parent plant. The clumps form a dense upright wall to support the ‘fountain’ foliage.

Fargesia murielae nitida is among the stunning Fargesias in the UK, owing their names to the appearances of the evergreen fountain-like foliage and coloured stems.

7 best Fargesia murielae nitida bamboo plants

A few years ago, only two clump-forming bamboo plants are known in the UK - the Fargesia nitida and mureilae varieties.

Today, successful pollination between the two clump-forming bamboos resulted in many hybrids of bamboo plants. Often those bamboos have different coloured stems and foliage.

As they say, for every garden, there is just the right bamboo for it!

In this section of the featured plants, we will take a look at the 7 Fargesia murielae nitida bamboo plants that are common in many UK homes and gardens. 

You may find one that is right for you.

1. Fargesia nitida 'Black Pearl’ Fountain Bamboo

The Black Pearl bamboo is a spectacular Fargesia murielae nitida. It has purply black culms and overarching green foliage. It grows to 4m in full height and spread 2 - 3m across.

Black Pearl bamboo grows well in pots and containers and adds a great effect to patios, balconies and courtyards.

Although this clump-forming bamboo is undemanding, it will need good soil and water during and immediately after planting.

Soil preparation is key to giving it a good start.

Add mulch, fertiliser or organic compost to preserve moisture and preserve the soil nutrient content.

Best qualities of Black Pearl: A spectacular fountain bamboo with purply black culms and overarching green foliage, non-invasive. Grows well in shade.

2. Fargesia nitida 'Winter Joy’

Winter Joy is a hybrid plant known by its full name as Fargesia marielae nitida 'Winter Joy’.

It is a stunning new plant that has all the ‘goodies’ from the Fargesia nitida and marielae bamboo plants.

This clump-forming bamboo has upright culms with beautiful shades of green and grey. Its leaves are evergreen all year round. It can reach 3 – 4m in height and forms clusters 2 – 3m across.

Like most Fargesia marielae nitida, the Bamboo Winter Joy grows well in large pots and containers.

It is tolerant to changes in weather but prefers a shade to a part-shade area; and nutrient-rich soil with good drainage.

Best qualities of Winter Joy: A beautiful purple sheath and greyish-purply pink tall and upright stems, evergreen dense foliage and non-invasive.

3. Fargesia nitida 'viking’ Fountain Bamboo

Fargesia nitida 'Viking’ is a hybrid (a cross between Fargesia nitida and murielae).

This elegant hybrid clump-forming bamboo is non-invasive, it does not need a barrier because of its tight clump-forming nature.

Perfect for small gardens and pots or containers or grown as a single plant. It prefers partially shaded sites with higher humidity.

Like other Fargesia bamboos, the bamboo 'Viking' will thrive in nutrient-rich soil and where there is good moisture.

Best qualities of Fargesia nitida 'viking’: The long evergreen foliage and edges can be pruned to give a compacted evergreen hedge, stunning purple to green stems and non-invasive.

4. Fargesia nitida 'Volcano’

Fargesia nitida ‘Volcano’ is a stunning, non-invasive bamboo.

It has a beautiful reddish black stem and brown sheath which forms a beautiful contrast between the dense green leaves.

The Volcano can grow to a height of 2 metres, its clumped base can reach 1.5 to 3 metres wide. A good choice for pots and containers or can be planted directly into the ground as a screen or hedge.

This clump-forming bamboo is non-invasive and prefers moist soil and full sun or partial shade. Avoid growing the Volcano Bamboo in waterlogged sites and strong winds.

Best qualities of Fargesia nitida 'Volcano’: The foliage and edges can be pruned to give a compacted evergreen hedge, beautiful red black stems and non-invasive.

5. Fargesia nitida ‘Pillar’

Fargesia nitida ‘Pillar’ has beautiful slender evergreen foliage. It has tight upright stems that go from green to deep dark purple when matured and arched at the tops.

This clump-forming fountain bamboo can grow 3 metres high and is extremely hardy at temperatures below –20 degrees Celsius.

The Nitida Pillar bamboo is highly tolerant of shady making it the best plant for container cultivation and small gardens.

It does not like compacted building soil or very dry sites. It can be used for screening but prefers large pots, containers and shades.

In the dry season, water well or apply mulch and organic composts.

Top Qualities of Fargesia nitida ‘Pillar’: Deep dark green leaves and tall slender clums, prefers shade, ideal for large pots and containers.

6. Fargesia nitida 'Jiuzhaigou’ Bamboo

Fargesia Nitida 'Jiuzhaigou' Red Panda Fargesia Bamboo has colourful stems with evergreen leaves.

The stems/culms emerge green, turn deep red and mature to yellowish orange. A spectacular change in colours is a response to the amount of light the stems receive and how well they’ve matured.

Unlike the other Fargesia in this article, 'Jiuzhaigou' required a lot of direct sunlight.

The clump-forming bamboo thrives in moist well-drained soils. When planted in large pots and containers, the soil must be kept moist and nutrient-rich to make it happy.

Fargesia nitida 'Jiuzhaigou’ is a hardy bamboo, it grows to an average height of 3 metres and spread 2 metres in clump formation.

Best qualities of Fargesia nitida 'Jiuzhaigou’: Spectacular change in the colour of the culms/stems from emerging green to deep red and aged yellowish orange. Needs sunlight for best result.

7. Fargesia nitida 'Obelisk’

Fargesia ‘Obelisk’ is a hybrid bamboo with evergreen leaves contrasting with the dark tall culms, it has the best of the qualities from the parent bamboos, the Murielae and Nitida.

This beautiful bamboo is known to produce numerous shoots and leaves every year.

Obelisk Bamboo is ideal as a standalone bamboo and makes a great ornamental garden centrepiece. It can also be grown in pots and containers, or as privacy screens and hedges to great effect.

This clump-forming bamboo is hardy and can withstand temperatures to a low -25 degrees Celsius.

Bamboo Obelisk culms can grow to 4m tall and support their dense green foliage. This bamboo thrives in part shade and shade.

Best qualities of Fargesia nitida 'Obelisk’: Great standalone plant, it produces masses of new shoots and leaves yearly. The clump-forming bamboo had dense green foliage and thin hardy culms. It is non-invasive.

Clump-forming Fargesia bamboo plants for sale

Here is where to buy the clump-forming bamboo plants online.  

We listed some top UK Home and Garden bamboo suppliers like Crocus and YouGarden.

Also, check out Amazon bamboo suppliers.

Summary of features of Fargesia murielae nitida

This group of clump-forming bamboo plants is best for a garden centrepiece but can also be ideal for hedging and privacy screening when grown in rows.

They are also fantastic shade plants, yet grow well in contained spaces, large pots and containers.

It can grow to 4m in height and spread 2 – 3m across.

• Site: Partial shade, or shade.
• Soil: Moist but well-drained fertile soil.
• Uses: Pots, containers, or individual planting.
• Winterhardiness: - 24  degrees Celcius
• Height: 3 – 4m
• Spread: 1.5 - 2m
• Foliage: Overarching green foliage, coloured stems.
• Grow & care: Clump-forming bamboo, non-invasive and undemanding.

7 Best Fargesia Murielae Nitida Bamboo Plants to grow for a thick screen, hedge and in garden. 

SEE THE PICTURES & FEATURES OF THESE BAMBOO PLANTS HERE.

Golden Yellow Cane Bamboo [Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis]

Golden Yellow Cane Bamboo [Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis] is a tall and thick running bamboo, best for tall hedges and screens. 

The golden stems have spectacular bright green stripes running vertically along the internode. This stunning bamboo is an all-rounder, you can grow it as a standalone plant,  garden centrepiece or tall screen. 

Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis is an RHS Merit Award-winning bamboo, that grows well in a mild temperate climate.

Buy bamboo plants and root barriers from UK suppliers here.

 

Common Features

• Identification: Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis, Golden Chinese Timber Bamboo, Golden Yellow Cane Bamboo.
• Site: Grows well in full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Well-drained loam soil, moist.
• Uses: Excellent for hedging, screening or large pots and containers. Do not do well in windy sites.
• Winterhardiness: Hardy to – 15 degrees Celsius.
• Height: a tall bamboo 10 - 12m.
• Spread: running bamboo (behaves like clumping bamboo in a temperate climate), 4 – 6m
• Foliage: Evergreen tall foliage
• Cane colour: spectacular green stripes, yellow, bright to matured dark orangey yellow.

Golden Yellow Cane Bamboo Tall Screen

Golden Yellow Cane Bamboo is an ideal bamboo plant for a tall hedge or natural privacy screen. The tall dense growth and golden yellow bamboo cluster are prominent outdoors.

This large tall bamboo (Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis) is a recipient of the prestigious RHS Merit Awards, one of the award-winning Phyllostachys bamboo plants.

The others include

• 1. Phyllostachys aurea,
• 2. Phyllostachys Aureaculata bissettii, and
• 3. Phyllostachys nigra.

Propagate Golden Yellow Cane Bamboo [Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis]

Although the Golden Yellow Cane Bamboo is a low-maintenance plant, the new growth will require care and attention. 

Slugs can wipe off the fresh leaves in one visit if left unprotected.

If you are propagating bamboo plants either from the rhizome or cane cuttings or planting a recent purchase, protect the new growths by adding Slug and Snail Killer.

Care

The Golden Yellow Cane Bamboo can spread to an average of 6 metres (or more) during a humid Spring or hot Summer. 

This running bamboo needs space to grow. Always grow this bamboo in barriers to stop spreading.

The new rhizomes and canes can reach their full spread and height, respectively, during a warm Spring or hot Summer.

Although Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis varieties are undemanding, a fully grown bamboo will require attention because it's invasive.

The plants thrive in the cooler temperate climate where there is well-drained loamy soil high in moisture and nutrient contents. Like most bamboo plants in the UK, they do not grow well in compacted soil.

Maintain tall bamboo plants

This tall bamboo with dense evergreen foliage is susceptible to heavy snowfall and strong wind. To protect from falling, use strong ropes to tie them back.

You can contain the Golden Chinese Timer Bamboo in large pots and containers. 

This impressive bamboo may not grow to its full height in contained spaces, but planted in nutrient-rich soil with good moisture, it will surely exhibit its best features.

Here is a video to show you how to provide support for tall bamboo.

Which bamboo is best for privacy screens? [Fargesia Vs Phyllostachys]

Homeowners and gardeners are wondering which bamboo plant would be most suited for screening purposes.

Some bamboo plants, called running bamboo plants, can become a serious problem if planted in the garden without a barrier.

There are many cultivars of running and clump-forming bamboo. The common ones are the Phyllostachys and Fargesia bamboo plants.

So, which bamboo plants is best for privacy screens? 

Which bamboo is best for privacy screens?

Many gardeners play it safe and opt for the clump-forming Fargesia over Phyllostachys. 

The Fargesia bamboo plants hold more foliage which offers more density for screening whereas the Phyllostachys is more about the stem colour and height.

Different Fargesia cultivars will produce different thicknesses and heights so it really depends on your need for screening.

For Fargesias, the Fargesia Umbrella bamboo plants produce thick screens and Fargesia Robusta cultivars are mostly tall. 

Some Phyllostachys bamboo plants like the Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra) and Scottish Bamboo (Phyllostachy Humilis) are running bamboos but behave like clump-forming bamboos in cooler climates.

Bamboo charm and elegance

The charm of the foliage and elegance is quickly lost when you see roots and shoots emerging in all parts of the garden, interfering with the built structures. 

Even worst when they cross the boundary over to the neighbour's side and cause some 'neighbourly discussions'.

Most Phyllostachys bamboo plants have running rhizomes that spread. But, there are cost-effective ways to grow running bamboo for screening.

You can still enjoy the charm and elegance of these beautiful plants by building a rhizome barrier before growing them. 

Use bamboo root barriers

When growing the running bamboo plants within barriers you won't have problems with them invading all parts of the garden, built structures and neighbour's side.

There are many different ways to create bamboo barriers from growing bamboo in planter boxes, pots and containers to building raised structures and securing bamboo roots within roots barriers.

Bamboo craft ideas: Making bamboo flute, mask, aeroplane [Images]

There are many bamboo craft ideas, some require skills while others are simple and fun, and anyone can do it. 

You can use the canes, sheaths, branches and rhizomes to make fun things with kids. Here are photos of some bamboo crafts that will inspire you.

Bamboo aeroplane propeller

This bamboo craft idea is my favourite. The bamboo sheath propeller models a light aircraft propeller.

You can put a toothpick or small metal through the hole and fly it. 

To fly it, hold it up to the wind and run. It will go around like a propeller.

Mini raft made from bamboo canes

We used the bamboo canes to build a mini-raft and it was lots of fun - see the video here. (Let us know what you think).

DIY Bamboo flute

If you have a straight bamboo piece, you can make a cool bamboo pipe flute.

Bamboo face mask

You can make cool bamboo facemask using bamboo sheaths. Great for Halloween parties. 

Bamboo craft ideas for kids

Not only in the garden, but bamboo canes are great materials for kids' crafts. 

If you are creative and crafty, you can make a lot of useful and or fun things using bamboo canes.

It is important for adults to help when preparing the canes.

The light and hollow canes, their flexibility for bending, and ease of snap-cutting are features that are ideal for creating fun outdoor crafts.

Closer Look at Parts of a Bamboo Culm

Bamboo culm is commonly known as stem or cane. 

The culm is comprised of 10 parts. 

Tips

The bamboo tips are the’ telescopic’ ends of the new shoots with sheath blades sticking out the sides. 

Inside the tips, there are lots of activities such as cell divisions and differentiation.

Shoots

The final thickness of the internodes and nodes are already laid down, pre-determined, in the shoots. 

The bamboo shoots grow in length into culms and produce branches and leaves.

Buds

Buds from the base of the bamboo grow into shoots and rhizomes. 

The ‘lateral’ buds appear at the node and grow into branches.

Culm Sheaths

The sheaths are cloth-like covers that wrap around the new shoots as they emerge and fall off as they mature into culms.

Nodes

The solid joints are called nodes. 

They form circular rims around the bamboo culms, every two nodes enclose a hollow internode.

Internodes

The internodes are the hollow cylindrical part between two nodes. 

Some internodes are oval-shaped like those of the Buddha Belly bamboo.

Branches

The main branches often grow out of the culm nodes. 

Each branch often has its own branch nodes and leaves. 

All the branches and leaves put together makes up the bamboo evergreen foliage.

Sulcus

This is the shallow indentation that runs from the branches up the internodes, often conspicuous in Phyllostachys bamboos.

Stem base

This is the lower part of the bamboo culm, sometimes seen just above the ground. 

This is the region where new bamboo shoots grow.

Stem petiole

This is the lowest part of the bamboo that connects to the rhizome, often found under the ground.

How to Grow Clumping Bamboo Fargesia murielae Red Zebra

 Clumping bamboo plants are low-maintenance plants. They do not spread from the parent plants.  

Here is a quick tip on how to propagate and grow clumping bamboo plants.

Propagate clumping bamboo ‘Red Zebra’

This clumping bamboo grows well by clump-base division. It can take 4 – 5 years before this bamboo requires some sort of clump division. 

The bamboo’s clump base will expand and cover the spaces where you plant them. 

You can also get more plants when they’ve matured. 

To propagate new Red Zebra bamboos, separate the bamboo into several divisions and grow them in propagation pots before planting them into holding pots or straight into the garden. 

This video shows how we propagate propagating using the three different techniques.

Grow clumping bamboo in containers and barriers

Fargesia murielae ‘Red Zebra’ is a tough bamboo, it will thrive in contained spaces where conditions are suitable. 

Its height and spread make it a perfect plant for growing in pots and containers, ideal for making a statement in the front entryway like the driveway, porch or veranda. 

Newly planted Red Zebra bamboo will require a good amount of water well. 

Also, ensure that the soil remains moist but well-drained until the new plants are rooting.

If you are looking for clumping bamboo plants for sale, check out the link to UK retailers.

Grow clumping bamboo in the garden

This clumping bamboo is a standout in the garden the transformation of the stems from purplish brown to dark red as the culms mature.

Red Zebra is a great ornamental bamboo best planted in the front garden, along the side walkways or where the culms are visible.

Award-winning bamboo plants

We also featured a special group of Award-Winning Bamboo Plants. 

These bamboos received the RHS Merit Award in the UK and other Bamboo Awards for their notable garden features. 

If you are having difficulty selecting bamboo, this group of bamboo plants will not disappoint you. 

Clumping bamboo for sale

Fargesia murielae Red Zebra bamboo ideal pot plant

To make the work lighter, always select the right pots before planting your bamboo plants. 

The best pots for planting bamboos have stable bases and wide tops. Note that it is often hard work to remove the bamboo when they’ve filled out the contained space. 

Here is a Guide to Selecting the Right Pot for planting running and clumping bamboo. Watch the video and find out the best way to grow bamboo plants in the UK.

Buy Clumping Red Bamboo Fargesia murielae 'Red Zebra'

Fargesia murielae 'Red Zebra' bamboo is an attractive small clumping bamboo with deep dark red matured culm and evergreen foliage. 

The Red Zebra is a standout ornament bamboo.

The new shoots and sheaths are covered in variable patterns of purplish-brown tints against the green cluster of leaves and gives Red Zebra bamboo its stunning look. 

The intensity of red in matured stems also adds to the distinct appearance that is similar to popular black running and clumping bamboos.

General description

• Name: Fargesia murielae Red Zebra, Umbrella Bamboo Red Zebra 
• Culm: Upright, purplish tints, culm matures to deep dark red. 
• Height: 2 - 3m. Spread: 1 - 2m, clump-forming.
• Foliage: Evergreen, leaves can be pruned. 

Growth requirement

• Hardiness: Fully hardy bamboo. 
• Site: Full sun, part shade and shade. 
• Soil: Loose nutrient-rich soil or loam, well-drained and moist 
• Use: Ornamental plant, garden centrepiece, individual plant.

'Red Zebra' bamboo plant care

Bamboos, like other plants, will require attention to grow well. 

The bamboo care tips will help you to maintain your clumping bamboo plants.

Thinning

Thinning bamboo plants once or twice a year to promote new growths and keep the plant under control. 

So, selectively trim the old culms and new shoots that you do not want within the bamboo grove.

Pruning

Pruning bamboo is intensive work compared to thinning bamboo. 

Dig and remove the parts of the bamboo that have outgrown the allocated space. 

This is an ideal time to take the bamboo divisions for replanting or getting bamboo sticks for use in the garden.

Mulch

Mulching is a highly recommended care and maintenance job. 

It will keep the soil moist and protect the bamboo from frost and frozen soils. 

Always use the bamboo leaves as mulch since they contain silicon which is naturally high in nitrogen. 

Organic mulch such as tree barks, and grass cuttings mixed with twigs and branches are also great bamboo mulch. 

The best time for mulching is early in Spring before the new bamboo shoots come out; or late in Autumn when you expect cold Winter.

Buy clumping bamboo plants like ‘Red Zebra ’

We feature prominent UK Home and Garden retailers where you can buy bamboo plants, tools and products. 

If you are looking for clumping bamboo plants for sale, check out the link to UK retailers.

Our visitors suggested that we identify bamboos that have similar features to the bamboos we are featuring in each article. 

We feel that this is a great suggestion because it makes it easier to cross-reference these bamboos when making comparisons. 

We are listing 3 bamboos that are similar to the Fargesia murielae ‘Red Zebra ’. 

The similarities are based on 5 important factors: the type (either running or clumping), height, foliage, hardiness and use.

1. Fargesia nitida ‘Volcano’
2. Red Panda Fargesia Bamboo
3. Fargesia Robusta Wolong

Maintain clumping bamboo plants

The clump formers are non-invasive bamboos, however, clumpers in pots and containers will require repotting after 4 or 5 years. 

In addition, the clumping bamboos in the garden do not grow out of the allocated space as the running bamboos do. 

Nevertheless, they tend to expand around the base. 

This clumping habit is visible as the new shoots grow into culms and the underground base buds thicken. 

As mentioned earlier, this could be the ideal time to prune the whole plant which is also an ideal time to get new plant divisions and bamboo sticks.

Clumping bamboo 'Red Zebra'

All in all, the Fargesia murielae ‘Red Zebra’ is a stunning bamboo to grow in pots or use as an individual garden centrepiece.

Grow Clumping Fargesia murielae 'Ivory Ibis'

Fargesia murielae 'Ivory Ibis ' is a clump-forming umbrella bamboo. This bamboo is a standout, it has upright dense culms and ivory evergreen foliage. 

It is an ideal choice for a formidable natural hedge or privacy screen. 

Bamboo Ivory Ibis is an undemanding bamboo hardy to -25 degrees Celsius and can also tolerate prolonged dry periods. Excellent bamboo for pots and containers, too.

General description

• Name: Fargesia murielae ‘Ivory Ibis’, Umbrella bamboo 'Ivory Ibis'
• Foliage: Evergreen, white shade on leaves (ivory).
• Culm: Upright, green stem, dense.
• Height: 3 - 4m, medium height bamboo, can be pruned.
• Spread: 2 - 3m, clump-forming.

Growth requirement

• Site: Shade, part shade to full sun.
• Soil: Clay and heavy soil (prefer well-drained moist soil)
• Hardiness: – 25 to –20 degrees Celsius.
• Use: Individual plant, pots, hedge, privacy screen.

Buy Fargesia murielae Ivory Ibis

Ivory Ibis bamboo is an ideal plant for privacy screening apartments, balconies, porches or any small outdoor place. 

It is also an ideal hedge plant in the garden because you can prune the leaves and new shoots. 

You can get more information on bamboo plants, tools and natural bamboo products from the renowned UK Home and Garden retailers we work with. 

5 Fargesia murielae bamboos similar to ‘Ivory Ibis’

Finding this bamboo at the local nursery or garden centre can be hard, therefore we provide 5 alternative bamboos that are similar to the ‘Ivory Ibis’. 

The similarities are based on 5 important factors: Fargesia bamboo, similar height, similar foliage, and similar hardiness and can be used as a hedging screen.

1. 'Red Zebra'
2. 'Dino'
3. 'Blue Lizard'
4. 'Blue Dargon'
5. 'Frosty Bamboo'

We also featured a special group of Award-Winning Bamboo Plants. 

These bamboos received the RHS Merit Award in the UK and other Bamboo Awards for their notable garden features. 

If you are having difficulty selecting bamboo, this group of bamboo plants will not disappoint you.

Working with bamboos

The clumping bamboo plants such as the 'Ivory Ibis' are non-invasive bamboos, however, clumpers in pots and containers will require repotting after 4 or 5 years. 

Many bamboo growers will attest to the fact that it is often hard work removing the bamboo from a pot or container when they’ve filled out the space. 

To make the work lighter, always select the right pots before planting your bamboo plants. 

The Fargesia group of bamboos are generally well-behaved, however, the underground bamboo parts expand around the base. 

This clumping habit is visible as the new shoots grow into culms and the underground base buds thicken. 

The culms of the Ivory Ibis will definitely require thinning and pruning after the first 3 years because of their dense culm clusters. 

This is the ideal time to prune the whole plant and get new plant divisions and bamboo sticks. 

Examples of bamboo sticks in use in pots and patio

Fargesia murielae Ivory Ibis

All in all, the Fargesia murielae ‘Ivory Ibis’ is an excellent bamboo for hedging and privacy screens. 

Its dense upright culms and thick foliage are the perfect features for creating a natural dense cover. 

At G.B.P, our goal is to provide the right information for selecting the right bamboo to grow in the garden and in pots and containers. 

Based on our experience, we also offer bamboo growers’’ tips and guides on how to provide the right care and maintenance for bamboo plants. 

You can see most of our work on YouTube.

Red Cane Bamboo Phyllostachys rubromarginata

Phyllostachys rubromarginata is also called the Reddish Bamboo or Red Margin Bamboo because of the reddish colour of the new shoots. 

This running bamboo is tall and upright, fast-spreading bamboo. It is ideal for tall hedges and quick natural privacy screens. 

The Reddish Bamboo is hardy to -20 degrees Celsius making it one of the cold-tolerant Phyllostachys bamboos to grow in the cold Winter areas of the UK and US. 

The stunning new reddish shoots are a standout feature. Definitely requires root barriers or elevated beds to contain it from spreading.

Buy Phyllostachys Bamboos in the UK

General description

• Name: Phyllostachys rubromarginata, Reddish Bamboo, Red Margin Bamboo
• Foliage: Evergreen.
• Culm: Upright green canes, reddish new shoots.
• Height: 6 - 7m, upright.
• Spread Running bamboo, very invasive.

Growth requirement

• Site:  Part shade to full sun.
• Soil: Well-drained, moist soil.
• Hardiness: – 20 degrees Celsius, hardy bamboo.
• Use: Fast privacy screening, tall hedge, container plant, individual plant – low maintenance plant but invasive.

Grow bamboo Phyllostachys rubromarginata (Reddish bamboo)

Cultivate in contained spaces

The Phyllostachys rubromarginata can grow to 7 metres and spread very quickly. 

It may not grow to its maximum height and spread when grown in contained spaces. 

Use large heavy-duty container pots to grow this tall Phyllostachys bamboo. 

The new shoots in the second, third and successive years will be reasonably taller than the first shoots. 

So, do not be surprised if your Phyllostachys rubromarginata is taller than an average Phyllostachys bamboo in the container pots. 

This running bamboo will definitely require repotting within 3 – 5 years. 

Cultivate in the garden

The Phyllostachys rubromarginata’s evergreen foliage, tall stems, elongated branches and thick covers are great for dense hedges and screens.

It is important to know that Phyllostachys rubromarginata (Reddish bamboo ) is an invasive bamboo. 

Therefore building a bamboo barrier prior to planting it in the garden is the best thing to do. 

Like the other running bamboos, the Reddish bamboo prefers well-drained, moist soil. 

Read about the Best Soil for Growing Running and clumping Bamboos.

How to propagate Reddish Bamboo?

In the UK, many growers use Rhizome Cuttings to propagate the running bamboo successfully. 

You can also use Culm Cuttings or Bamboo Seeds to propagate Phyllostachys rubromarginata. Seeds are often hard to find because bamboos rarely flower. 

If you are lucky to have a rare bamboo seed, take extra care to grow them. 

This How to Grow Bamboo from Seeds Step-by-step Guide will help you to grow bamboo from seeds successfully.

Where to Buy Phyllostachys Bamboos in the UK?

The Phyllostachys Rubromarginata has a distinctive slender and upright growing habit and is hardy to -20 degrees Celsius. 

This bamboo is the best choice for large pots, tall garden hedges or quick natural privacy screens. 

It is also an ideal bamboo for landscapers, homeowners or gardeners who want fast-growing, thick and tall bamboo. 

Buy Phyllostachys Bamboos in the UK

Bamboos similar to Phyllostachys rubromarginata

Finding the tall Phyllostachys Bamboo at the local nursery or garden centre can be challenging. 

Therefore, we list 5 other bamboos that are similar to the ‘Phyllostachys rubromarginata’. 

The similarities are based on 5 important factors: the type (either running or clumping), height, foliage, hardiness and use. 

Details for each bamboo can be found through the links provided, click for more information.

1. Phyllostachys Parvifolia Running Bamboo
2. Phyllostachys flexuosa Sinuate Bamboo
3. Edulis Moso Bamboo Phyllostachys Pubescens
4. Giant Phyllostachys Bamboo Phyllostachys Bambusoides
5. Black Bamboo Phyllostachys Nigra

Phyllostachys rubromarginata is a fantastic bamboo for privacy screens and fast-growing hedging. 

Root barriers are necessary for growing this bamboo. 

At G.B.P, our goal is to provide the right information for selecting the right bamboo to grow in the garden and in pots and containers. 

We also offer bamboo growers tips and guides on how to look after your bamboo plants. You can see our work on Bamboo Care and Maintenance here.

How to cut bamboo canes without splitting

Bamboo canes are fantastic to have around. You can grow new plants for the canes or use them as sticks in the garden. 

They have many uses, yet care should be taken when preparing them as the splinters and slits can cause injuries to the exposed skin.

Find out how to cut bamboo canes without splitting.

 

What is the right cane to take cuttings?

Young cane cuttings are not the best to propagate because they will not germinate. This is the same for the canes that are 5 years or older.

Choose healthy canes with new branches and fully grown leaves. Ideally, the canes that are 3 - 4 years old. They have the energy to grow into new plants when planted.

Check out the blog's archived articles on how to propagate bamboo plants

How to cut bamboo canes

You can grow both the running and clump-forming bamboo plants from the cuttings. 

Prepare the canes

• Select bamboo stems that are 3 - 4 years old with a diameter of at least 2 cm.
• Always cut the canes (stems) at 45 degrees with a hacksaw. Allow for two cane nodes and one internode.
• Put the cuttings in water or shape to keep them fresh.

Plant the canes

• Plant the cuttings in designated pots or in nutrient-rich soil, away from direct sun. Cover the nodes of the new cuttings with soil and mulch.
• Leave the top of the cuttings covered, free from any soil or mulch.

Get the tools from top UK Home & Garden suppliers listed at the GBP website. 

Tools for cutting bamboo canes

You will need a handsaw to cut the bamboo canes neatly. Check that you have these tools, or their equivalent, ready.

• A hacksaw, 
• Pair of secateurs or garden loopers.
• A Sharp knife

Get the tools here 

Care should be taken when cutting bamboo canes. The new splits and edges are razor-sharp. A cut to the skin can be nasty.

Take care when cutting bamboo canes

The bamboos have tough rhizomes (underground stems) and canes (stems). 

The cuttings are likely to lacerate exposed skins. Take extra care when cutting them.

• Caution: The hardy splinters and edges of the bamboo stems are razor sharp.
• Cut to the exposed skin is highly likely.
• Care should be taken when cutting the bamboo stems and rhizomes.

Hope this article gives you an idea about how to cut bamboo canes without splitting. 

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How to Plant Bamboo Seeds

There are three common ways to propagate bamboo plants – using the seeds, rhizome cuttings and culm cuttings. Find out how to plant bamboo seeds and transplant them successfully.

Materials for planting bamboo seeds

The two important factors you should pay attention to when propagating bamboo seeds are temperature and soil moisture.

As a rule of thumb, temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius and high moisture content are ideal for bamboo seeds to germinate. 

• A 50/50 organic compost.
• 4cm - 6cm growing pots or trays.
• Bowls for soaking the seeds.
• Rainwater or distilled water.
• Propagator (or well-insulated greenhouse) to keep the temperature constant at 25 – 30 degrees Celsius

Buy bamboo seeds online

Bamboo plants flower occasionally and therefore seeds are hard to find. Yet, you can buy the seeds either online or from reputable nurseries in the UK.

We found three online sellers that are based in the UK and do free deliveries. Here is their link on Amazon.

Plant bamboo seeds indoor

Important: To grow bamboo from seed, soak the seeds in a bowl of water for about 24 hours to promote root development. Distilled water is ideal for soaking bamboo seeds. Avoid using treated water.

Keep the temperatures at the standard room temperature to promote germination.

Step 1 Soak seeds: 

Firstly, soak the bamboo seed in a bowl of water for 20 - 24 hours. The water should not be too hot or too cold. 

Hot temperatures will destroy the bamboo seeds. Cooler temperatures are likely to delay the seeds from germinating, 22 – 25 degrees Celsius are ideal for soaking bamboo seeds.

Step 2 Prepare compost and potting seeds: 

Prepare the compost in a pot or tray, space the seeds out at 1 - 2cm intervals and sprinkle a fine layer of compost on the top.

Step 3 Control temperature and moisture:

Use a seed propagator if you have one. Alternatively, use a clear plastic bag big enough to cover the pot. 

Seeds germinate well where it is not too hot or too cool. Maintain the germinating temperature of 22 – 26 degrees Celsius.

Step 4 Potted seeds storage site: 

Place your newly potted seeds where there is a medium shade, away from direct sunlight. Check the potted seeds daily. 

You should see the first sign of sprouting after 10 – 15 days.

Step 5 Seeds care: 

It can take up to 30 days for all the seeds to germinate, and some seeds may take longer. Check that the leaves are green and healthy, and the soil remains moist. 

Elevate the clear plastic cover, of the lid if you are using a propagator so that the leaves do not touch the sides of the covers.

When is the right time to plant bamboo seeds?

Spring and Summer are the best times to grow bamboos from seeds in the UK. Check out the different ways to propagate bamboo plants.

Put the seeds indoors or greenhouse and maintain the soil moisture content as well as the temperature so that it is not too cold or too hot but at the standard room temperature of 22 – 25 degrees Celsius.

After they’ve germinated, it is time to transplant them into mini grow pots. 

Always use plastic pots. The ceramic pots retain heat and are not ideal for germinating seeds.

From seeds to germinating and transplanting bamboo plants, they’ll need water even in Winter. They’ll also need mulch and a lot of attention.

Bamboo seeds carry the nutrients they need to germinate. Yet, grow them in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.

The best soil for growing bamboo seeds is an all-purpose compose.

How long does it take bamboo seeds to grow?

New shoots and roots will appear after 20-30 days after planting. 

This is the best part of growing bamboo from seeds, it shows that the bamboo roots and rhizomes, and culms are establishing themselves in the propagator.

Start potting the early bamboo sprouts into larger pots where they'll grow for the next 12 months. 

This will give the seeds that remained dormant in the propagator a chance to germinate.

Note: It can take as long as 5 years to grow bamboo from seeds to planting in pots and in the garden.

Here are some guided info on how to grow bamboos: how to grow bamboos in pots and containers. & the best soil for growing bamboos in pot.

 

Bamboo from seeds to mature plants

It can take an average of 5 years to plant bamboo from seeds to get a fully grown bamboo plant.

Though it is a painstaking undertaking, it can be really satisfying. 

Here is a breakdown of how long it can take to plant bamboo from seeds to potting to transplanting into pots and gardens.

• 12 hours: Soak seeds in distilled water for propagating.
• 10 - 12 months (1st year): Bamboo Seeds grow in a propagator. Ready for transplanting into holding pots.
• 1 – 2 years (2nd – 3rd years): New bamboo plants (in holding pots) can reach 1m  in height with an established rooting system.
• 2 – 3 years (4th – 5th years): Fully grown bamboo plants, ready for planting in the garden or big pots.

These bamboo plants can live for more than 60 years.

The best thing to do when learning how to plant bamboo from seeds and transplant them successfully is to prepare the materials and site properly.