Showing posts with label Clumping Bamboo Plants. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Clumping Bamboo Plants. Show all posts

Alphonse Karr bamboo Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr'

Alphonse Karr bamboo (Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr') is a beautiful bamboo species that is native to Asia. It is known for its striking yellow and green striped culms, which can grow up to 9 metres tall and 5 centimetres in diameter. 

This bamboo species is popular among gardeners and landscapers for its ornamental value, as well as its ability to provide privacy and shade.

Alphonse Karr bamboo (Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr')


Alphonse Karr bamboo is its striking appearance

One of the most notable features of Alphonse Karr bamboo is its striking appearance. The culms are a combination of yellow and green stripes, which give the plant a unique and eye-catching look. 

Its leaves are also green, but are slightly smaller than those of other bamboo species. The leaves are arranged in a feathery pattern, which adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant.


Alphonse Karr bamboo is also known for its hardiness and durability. It is a fast-growing species, which makes it ideal for privacy screens and hedges. 

Where to buy Alphonse Karr bamboo in the UK

We work with some of the well-known bamboo suppliers in the UK. The suppliers sell both running bamboo and clump-forming bamboo plants. You can buy them bamboo plants online or in-store.

Check your local garden centre to find out if they sell any Alphonse Karr bamboo.

One place we recommend checking online is Crocus UK. They have a great collection of bamboo plants to choose from.

Also, here is the list of 5 bamboo suppliers in the UK. We do not work with them, but we found them to be also best in the business.

Uses

Alphonse Karr bamboo can also be used as a windbreak or to provide shade in a garden or outdoor living space. The culms are strong and sturdy, which makes them resistant to damage from wind or heavy snow. 

It is relatively low maintenance, making it a great choice for busy gardeners and homeowners. Here are the top 6 ways to use this stunning bamboo:

  1. Privacy screens and hedges: The fast-growing nature of Alphonse Karr bamboo makes it a great choice for creating privacy screens and hedges in gardens and outdoor living spaces.
  2. Windbreaks: Its strong and sturdy culms make it an effective windbreak, helping to protect other plants in the garden from strong winds.
  3. Shade: The tall culms and feathery leaves provide ample shade, making it a great option for gardens and outdoor living spaces that receive a lot of sun.
  4. Ornamental: Alphonse Karr bamboo is a striking and beautiful plant, with its unique yellow and green striped culms and feathery leaves, making it a great ornamental plant for any garden.
  5. Bamboo groves: This bamboo can be planted in large groupings to create a bamboo grove, providing an exotic and tropical feel to a garden.
  6. Bamboo fences: The canes of Alphonse Karr bamboo can be used to create natural, eco-friendly fences. They are durable, lightweight and can be plated in a row, to create a barrier for the garden or for privacy.

Care

In terms of care, Alphonse Karr bamboo is relatively easy to maintain. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. 

The plant prefers well-draining soil and regular watering. However, it can tolerate drought conditions once it is established. 

Fertilizing is not necessary, but you can use a slow-release fertilizer to promote growth

Alphonse Karr bamboo is also relatively pest and disease resistant, which helps to keep maintenance to a minimum.


Alphonse Karr bamboo is non-invasive

One of the most common concerns with bamboo is its tendency to spread and become invasive. However, Alphonse Karr bamboo is considered a non-invasive species, which means it is less likely to spread and take over a garden or landscape. 

Also, because it is a clumping bamboo, it is less likely to spread via underground rhizomes. This makes it a great choice for gardeners who want to enjoy the beauty of bamboo without worrying about it becoming a problem.

Here are 12 characteristics of Alphonse Karr Bamboo:

  1. Striking yellow and green striped culms
  2. Can grow up to 30 feet tall and 2 inches in diameter
  3. Feathery green leaves
  4. Fast-growing, making it ideal for privacy screens and hedges
  5. Resistant to damage from wind or heavy snow
  6. Low maintenance
  7. Tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can be grown in full sun or partial shade
  8. Preferred well-draining soil and regular watering
  9. Pest and disease resistant
  10. Non-invasive, clumping bamboo species
  11. Can add a unique and exotic touch to any garden or landscape
  12. Can bring beauty and elegance to any outdoor space for many years to come.

Overall, Alphonse Karr bamboo is a beautiful and versatile plant that can add a unique and exotic touch to any garden or landscape. It's striking yellow and green striped culms, combined with its hardiness and durability, make it a great choice for privacy screens, hedges, windbreaks, and shade.

Its non-invasive nature and low maintenance requirements make it a great choice for busy gardeners and homeowners. 

With proper care, Alphonse Karr bamboo can bring beauty and elegance to any outdoor space for many years to come.

Fargesia Rufa Fountain Bamboo

 Fargesia murielae Rufa is a popular Fountain Bamboo bamboo plant to grow in the UK. It is a fast-growing and non-invasive fountain bamboo.

The upright hardy green culms, small branches and thick evergreen foliage are easy to control. This bamboo is ideal for privacy screening and hedging.

Bamboo Fargesia Rufa is a Clump-forming Bamboo commonly referred to as the Chinese Fountain bamboo or Dragon Head bamboo.

Fargesia rufa UK

Clump-forming 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.

Fargesia murielae Rufa Features

  • Identification: Bamboo Rufa, Chinese Fountain Bamboo, Dragon Head Bamboo.
  • Site: Sun, partial shade, or shade
  • Soil: Moist but well-drained fertile soil.
  • Uses: Privacy screening, hedging, pots, containers, or an individual planting
  • Temperature hardiness: - 24 degrees Celcius
  • Height: 2 – 3m
  • Spread: 1.5 - 2m
  • Foliage colour: Dense green, prune to get compact foliage.
  • Grow and care: Fast-growing bamboo, non-invasive and undemanding.

Maintain Fargesia Rufa [Fountain Bamboo]

You can propagate this bamboo in two ways, either by separation of the clumps or by rhizome cuttings.

Either way, it is important to propagate the new cuttings in a propagation medium (preferably in Spring) before replanting the following season.

This bamboo is a tough, hardy and evergreen clump-forming bamboo. It is non-invasive and demands less attention.

To ensure that the bamboo stays healthy, check the leaves and soil, and add mulch where necessary. If you prune this bamboo, it will form neat and compact foliage.

Put the leaves under bamboo because they contain organic traces of silica which is rich in potassium. Add mulch in early Spring and fertiliser, if necessary.

Is it an indoor or outdoor plant?

Fargesia murielae 'Rufa' does well both outdoors and indoors. 

The bamboo can grow to a height of 4m and spread over a diameter of 2.5 – 3m. The perfect height and spread of 2 - 3 metres make it a great plant for privacy screens and hedges.

The clump-forming bamboo is very adaptable, ideal for large pots, planters and containers. It can grow in the sun, part shade and shade.

5 Interesting facts

In addition to the unique features and qualities outlined in this article, we found these 5 facts to be interesting.

Do you know? This bamboo is

  • native to China.
  • a clump-forming bamboo.
  • the main food source for the Giant Pandas.
  • commonly called Dragon Head Bamboo or Chinese Fountain Bamboo.
  • the recipient of the RHS Award of Garden Merits (AGM) for its finest qualities and noted as one of the best winterhardy plants.

Bamboo grow & care guide

We gave an in-depth insight into the running and clump-forming bamboos. The articles are packed with informational tips and step-by-step guides for bamboo growers. Here are the links!

If you find this article helpful, leave a comment and let us know what you think. And finally, we would appreciate it if you could follow us on our YouTube Channel - Amazing Bamboo Plants.

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.

fargesia nitida UK


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.


Fargesia bamboo plants for sale UK


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.

Fargesia nitida Black Pearl [Fountain Bamboo]

 Fargesia nitida 'Black Pearl' is a spectacular fountain bamboo with purply black culms and overarching green foliage. It is a clump-forming bamboo.

It grows well in shade and part shade, an ideal bamboo for north-facing gardens and balconies.

Buy black bamboos at Crocus.co.uk

Fargesia nitida Black Pearl Bamboo UK

Features

  • Identity: Fargesia nitida 'Black Pearl', Black Pearl Bamboo, Fountain Bamboo.
  • Culm: Coloured, green to purple and black.
  • Leaves: Evergreen, fountain foliage.
  • Mature Height: 3 – 4 metres.
  • Spread: Grow out of the base clump 2 – 3 m, not invasive.
  • Hardiness: – 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Uses: Grows in pots and containers, prefers shade and part-shade.
  • Care: add manure or good organic compost, avoid planting in windy sites.

Clump-forming 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.

Grow black pearl bamboo

The fountain bamboos are from the group Fargesia nitida. 

They are an adorable group because they have various colours that contrast beautifully with the natural garden colour, green.

The spectacular black pearl matches the light green undergrowth and lighter colours of the built environment.

So, grow this beautiful black bamboo in the backdrop of lighter colours.

Here are 3 tips for choosing a better site for growing Fargesia nitida Black Pearl: 

  • Take a look at the stripy colours of the vegetation (or built environment).
  • Match the colours to the colour dark culms and green leaves of  Fargesia nitida 'Black Pearl'.
  • Then, plant the bamboo and pay attention to it in the first summer as it establishes itself.
Fargesia nitida Black Pearl Fountain Bamboo grows well in shade and part shade - thrives as an undercover plant, great for landscaping. 

Guide for growing Fargsia nitida bamboo

The four articles are packed with information, tips and step-by-step guides for growing bamboo in the UK.

If you want to know how to propagate bamboo plants from seeds or culm and rhizome cuttings or grow bamboo in pots and gardens, you'll find the info useful. Here are the links!

You can find additional insights into bamboo growth requirements & care on our YouTube channel – Amazing Bamboo Plants.

Fargesia nitida Winter Joy [Shade-loving Bamboo Plants]

 Fargesia nitida '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.

Bamboo ‘Winter Joy' is very decorative due to its dark green steams with red undertones.

In the winter, the light green, small leaves stay on the plant and they are visually appealing even in the winter.

Fargesia nitida Winter Joy
 

Best qualities of Winter Joy

A beautiful purple sheath and greyish-purply pink tall and upright stems, evergreen dense foliage and non-invasive. Great shade plant.

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.

Tolerant to seasonal changes, but prefers a shade to part-shade area; and nutrient-rich soil with good drainage. 

Clump-forming 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. 

Fargesia nitida Winter Joy features

  • Name: Fargesia nitida 'Winter Joy’, Chinease Fountain Bamboo.
  • Culm: Upright, green and grey, purply pink sheath.
  • Leaves: Evergreen, fountain-forming foliage.
  • Mature Height: 3 – 4 metres.
  • Spread: Grow out of the base clump 2 – 3 m, does not spread.
  • Winterhardiness: - 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Uses: Grow in pots and containers, grows well in shade and part-shade.
  • Care: Add manure or good organic compost, and avoid planting in windy sites.
  • Site: Shade to part shade

Bamboo plants similar to Winter Joy

Some bamboo with similar features are Fargesia rufa, Fargesia nitida gansu and Fargesia nitida 'Black Pearl. Check this list for all the Fargesias.

We also featured 7 common types of the Nitida group.  A spectacular group of non-invasive bamboo plants, they will not send their roots and shoots away from the parent plant.

The clumps form a dense upright wall to support the ‘fountain’ foliage.

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

Make an exotic bamboo garden

Here are some articles packed with tips and step-by-step guides for bamboo growers.

Exotic Bamboo Garden Ideas (VIDEO)

If you find this article helpful, leave a comment and let us know what you think. 

And finally, we would appreciate it if you could follow us on our YouTube Channel – Amazing Bamboo Plants.

Fargesia Nitida Bamboo Viking [Clump-forming Bamboo]

 Fargesia nitida Viking is a hybrid bamboo, 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.

Fargesia nitida Viking hybrid Fargesia nitida and murielae.

Best qualities of Fargesia nitida 'Viking’

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.

The foliage and edges can be pruned to give a compacted evergreen hedge, stunning purple to green stems and non-invasive

Clump-forming 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.

Growth features

  • Name: Fargesia nitida 'Viking'.
  • Culms: purple to green canes.
  • Leaves: slender, dark green, evergreen.
  • Max. Height: 2-4 metres.
  • Spread: Grow out of the base clump, non-invasive.
  • Winterhardiness: - 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Uses: Versatile plant- screens, hedges, ornamental, pot, etc.
  • Site: Part-shade – south-facing, sunny, good moisture.

Benefits of Growing Fargesia Nitida Bamboo

The Chinese Fountain Bamboo plants are great for part-shade and sunny areas.

This exotic Chinese bamboo is also good for screening, creating an evergreen backdrop or growing along an elevated site, but preferably in part-shaded areas.

Create an exotic bamboo garden 

Here are some articles packed with tips and step-by-step guides for bamboo growers.

If you find this article helpful, leave a comment and let us know what you think. 

And finally, we would appreciate it if you could follow us on our YouTube Channel – Amazing Bamboo Plants.

Red Chinese Fountain bamboo [Fargesia nitida 'Volcano’]

 Fargesia nitida ‘Volcano’, the Red Chinese Fountain bamboo, is a stunning, non-invasive bamboo, its other names are Chinese Fountain Bamboo 'Volcano', Red Fountain Bamboo or Spherical Garden bamboo.

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

Red Chinese Fountain bamboo [Fargesia nitida 'Volcano’]


Best qualities of Red Chinese Fountain bamboo [Fargesia nitida 'Volcano’]

The 'Volcano' can grow to a height of 2 metres, and 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.

 The foliage and edges can be pruned to give a compacted evergreen hedge, beautiful red black stems and non-invasive.

Clump-forming 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.

Fargesia ‘Volcanoe’ Fountain Bamboo features

  • Identification: Fargesia nitida ‘Volcano’, Chinese Fountain Bamboo, Red Fountain Bamboo, Spherical Garden bamboo.
  • Culms: purply-reddish and black stems, brown sheath.
  • Leaves: slender, evergreen dense foliage.
  • Mature Height: 1.5 - 2 metres.
  • Spread: 1 metre, non-invasive.
  • Winterhardiness: - 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Uses: standalone plant, pots and containers, screen, roof terrace.
  • Site: Part shade to shade

Some bamboo plants with similar features are Fargesia rufa, Fargesia nitida Gansu and Fargesia nitida 'Black Pearl'. Check this list for all the Fargesias.

Types of Fargesia Chinese Fountain Bamboos

We featured 7 common types of the Nitida group. 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 nitida is among the stunning Fargesia bamboos in the UK, owing their names to the appearances of the evergreen fountain-like foliage and coloured stems.

Benefits of Growing Chinese Fountain Bamboo

The Chinese Fountain Bamboo plants are great for shaded areas. If you have a North-facing garden this group of bamboos will thrive in it. 

This exotic Chinese bamboo is also good for screening, creating an evergreen backdrop or growing along an elevated site, but preferably in the shade. 

Create an exotic bamboo garden 

Here are some articles packed with tips and step-by-step guides for bamboo growers.

If you find this article helpful, leave a comment and let us know what you think. 

And finally, we would appreciate it if you could follow us on our YouTube Channel – Amazing Bamboo Plants.

Fargesia nitida ‘Pillar’ [Chinese Fountain Bamboo]

Fargesia nitida ‘Pillar’, the Chinese Fountain Bamboo, 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. 

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

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

Fargesia nitida ‘Pillar’

Clump-forming bamboo plants for sale

Here is where to buy the clump-forming bamboo plants onlineWe listed some top UK Home and Garden bamboo suppliers like Crocus and YouGarden.

Also, check out Amazon bamboo suppliers.

Bamboo Fargesia ‘Pillar’ features

  • Name/s: Fargesia nitida ‘Pillar’, Chinese Fountain Bamboo.
  • Culms: upright, green turning deep purple almost black.
  • Leaves: slender, evergreen dense foliage.
  • Max. Height: 2 - 3 metres.
  • Max. Spread: 1 - 2 metres, non-invasive, clump-forming.
  • Winterhardiness: - 20 to - 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Uses: single plant, pots and containers, shade plants
  • Care: tolerant of shade, water well in the dry season, requires good soils and moisture.
Some bamboo with similar features are Fargesia rufa, Fargesia nitida gansu and Fargesia nitida 'Black Pearl. Check this list for all the Fargesias.

How to grow fountain bamboo?

The Chinese Fountain Bamboo, Fargesia nitida ‘Pillar’, can grow 3 metres high and is extremely winterhardy –20 degrees Celsius.

It is bamboo is highly tolerant of shade, making it the best plant for containers and pots, undergrowth and small gardens.

It does not like compacted chalky soil and dry areas.

Use this clump-forming bamboo for screening shady spots. It also grows well in large pots and containers.

Types of Fargesia Nitida Bamboo plants

We featured 7 common types of the Nitida group. 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 nitida fountain bamboo plant is among the stunning Fargesia bamboos in the UK, owing their names to the appearances of the evergreen fountain-like foliage and coloured stems.

Create an exotic bamboo garden 

Here are some articles packed with tips and step-by-step guides for bamboo growers.

If you find this article helpful, leave a comment and let us know what you think. 

And finally, we would appreciate it if you could follow us on our YouTube Channel – Amazing Bamboo Plants.

Fargesia Nitida 'Jiuzhaigou' Fountain Bamboo [Red Panda Fargesia Bamboo]

 Fargesia Nitida 'Jiuzhaigou' (commonly known as the Red Panda Fargesia Bamboo) is a clump-forming dwarf bamboo.

The stems of this bamboo emerge green, turn deep red and mature to yellowish-orange. It is known that the change in colours is a response to the amount of light the stems receive.

Unlike the other Fargesias,  Fargesia Nitida 'Jiuzhaigou' requires a good amount of 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.

Fargesia Nitida 'Jiuzhaigou'

Bamboo Fargesia 'Jiuzhaigou' features

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

  • Identification: Fargesia nitida 'Jiuzhaigou', clump-forming bamboo, dwarf bamboo, Red Panda’ Fargesia.
  • Culms: emerge green, turn red and age to orange.
  • Leaves: dense evergreen foliage.
  • Max Height: 2 - 4 metres.
  • Spread: 1 - 2 metres, non-invasive, clump forming.
  • Winterhardiness: -15 to -20 degrees Celsius.
  • Uses: Ideal for pots and containers, or sites where there is direct sunlight.
  • Care: prefers direct sunlight, and requires good soil and moisture.

Clump-forming bamboo plants for sale

Here is where to buy the clump-forming bamboo plants onlineWe listed some top UK Home and Garden bamboo suppliers like Crocus and YouGarden.

Also, check out Amazon bamboo suppliers.

Best qualities of Fargesia nitida 'Jiuzhaigou’

Spectacular change in the colour of the culms/stems from emerging green to deep red and aged to yellowish orange.

Grow in south facing gardens as it needs sunlight for the best result.

7 Types of Fargesia Nitida Fountain Bamboos

We featured 7 common types of the Nitida group. 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 nitida is among the stunning Fargesia bamboos in the UK, owing their names to the appearances of the evergreen fountain-like foliage and coloured stems.

Here are four articles packed with informational guides for bamboo growers. 

Click on the links to read about how to propagate bamboo plants.

Is it legal to grow bamboo plants in the UK?

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 lists nearly 40 non-native invasive plants. They must not be planted in gardens or caused to grow in the wild.

Other laws briefly stated in this post cover tall hedges and property damages.

laws about growing bamboo in the UK


Tall hedges

The Anti-social Behaviour Act, 2003, covers tall hedges but it does not cover garden plant invasion. 

Property damages

The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, 2014 enables local authorities and police to issue community protection notices where plants cause damage to neighbours’ gardens and properties. 

The protection notice can be issued when it is shown beyond doubt that the individual in question has persistently acted in a way that has a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those around them.

Is bamboo legal to grow in the UK?

Currently, no specific legislation covers the sale and planting of bamboo plants in the UK.

The UK Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (Updated 11 December 2014, now the Guidance to Invasive Non-native Plants) does not classify bamboo plants as an invasive species.

Not all bamboo plants are invasive

Of the two varieties, the clumping bamboo plants are non-invasive whereas some running bamboo plants are invasive. 

Black Bamboo, Scottish Bamboo and Phyllostachys aurea are running bamboo plants but behave like clumping bamboo in cooler climates. 

Running bamboo options

Choose the clump-forming bambooBlack Bamboo, Scottish Bamboo or Phyllostachys aurea.

These bamboo plants have attractive stems and evergreen foliage.

 They are good for privacy screening.

Use root barriers to grow running bamboo

Running bamboo rhizomes have the potential to damage built-up areas and cross garden boundaries.

Grow bamboo plants in barriers. This is the best way to grow bamboo screens and hedges

Here are some ideas for bamboo root/rhizome barriers when growing running bamboo.

Fargesia nitida Obelisk [Fargesia murielae and Fargesia nitida Hybrid]

Fargesia nitida ‘Obelisk’ is a hybrid bamboo with evergreen leaves and dark tall culms. This clump-forming Fargesia nitida has the best qualities of the parent plants Fargesia murielae and Fargesia nitida.

This beautiful bamboo is known for producing numerous shoots and leaves every year.

Fargesia nitida Obelisk is ideal as a standalone bamboo, 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. 

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

Fargesia nitida Obelisk UK

Bamboo Fargesia ‘Obelisk’ features and care

Best qualities of Fargesia nitida 'Obelisk’: Great standalone plant, produces masses of new shoots and leaves yearly. 

Obelisk is clump-forming bamboo with dense green foliage and thin hardy culms. It is non-invasive.
  • Identification: Fargesia nitida ‘Obelisk’, Hybrid Umbrella Bamboo Obelisk, Fargesia Nitida Obelisk.
  • Culms: Slender, Dark columnar.
  • Leaves: Bright green, evergreen foliage.
  • Height: 3 - 4 metres.
  • Spread: 1 - 2 metres, non-invasive, clump forming.
  • Hardiness: - 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Use: Standalone specimens, pots and containers, hedges, privacy screens.
  • Care: Thrives in the shade and part shade, requires good soils and moisture.

Cost of Clump-forming bamboo plants

The cost listing below is an estimated price of the common Clump-forming bamboo plants based on the cost of 10 – 20 L pots. 

The comparison table shows the price ranges (lowest and highest prices) from over 10 UK online retailers, including the major online markets, Amazon and eBay.

Note that the prices are indicative of the costs of packages (P&P) and delivery charges, and are subject to changes. Use this table as a guide. 

For more information on prices, check the recent online prices from the top UK Bamboo Suppliers.

7 Types of Fargesia Nitida Fountain Bamboo

We featured 7 common types of the Nitida group

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

The 4 articles below are packed with tips and step-by-step guides for bamboo growers. 

Click on the links to find out more.

Follow GBP on YouTube – Amazing Bamboo Plants. Get the top tips for growing bamboo plants in the UK.

Fargesia Robusta Campbell [Clump-forming Bamboo]

Fargesia Robusta Campbell is non-invasive. A popular bamboo due to its clump-forming nature and stunning appearance.

Enclosed on the light brown sheaths are the bright green culms (stems), turning olive-green as they mature.

Fargesia Robusta Campbell is a fantastic bamboo in the Fargesia Robusta Umbrella Bamboo group.

Clumping Bamboo Plants for Sale

We’ve compiled a list of reputable Garden retailers in the UK where you can buy the right bamboo at the right price. 

Find out where to buy clumping bamboo plants from the UK Home & Garden retailers online.

Bamboo plants for sale: Crocus and YouGarden


 

Characteristics of Fargesia robusta 'Campbell'

  • IdentificationFargesia Robusta Campbell, Umbrella Bamboo ‘Campbell’
  • Culms: Slender tall and deep green culms.
  • Leaves: Dark green foliage.
  • Mature Height: tall bamboo, 5 – 7m.
  • Spread: 2.5 – 3m.
  • Hardiness: - 20 degrees Celsius.
  • Site: Sun or part-shade.
  • Care: Low maintenance bamboo plant, prefers sunny sites.

Fargesia Robusta Campbell is the fastest growing bamboo in the Fargesia murielae and Fargesia Nitida group, hence the name robust or robusta. 

Its stem is strikingly slender and tall, new growths form tight clusters, ideal for tall hedges and natural privacy screens.

Fargesia Robusta ‘Campbell’ Bamboo

Umbrella Bamboo ‘Campbell’ is well known as the Fargesia murielae robusta ‘Campbell'. This clump-forming bamboo has evergreen dark green foliage. Its stems are light green, long and slender.

Robusta Campbell is a fast-growing Fargesia bamboo that can reach a full height of approximately 5m during a year’s growth and remain evergreen for more than 5 years.

Campbell Bamboo’s new shoots are dark red. As they grow, the striking colour contrast between the light brown sheath and the light green stem and dark green leaves is stunning, observable between Spring and early Summer.

The elegant Fargesia robusta 'Campbell' is ideal for tall hedges and privacy screens. It is containable in pots and containers. It prefers a nice sunny spot, with good soil and moisture to grow well.

Robusta ‘Campbell’ Bamboo Care

Though Fargesia 'Campbell' Bamboo is a low-maintenance plant, the new plant may require water and mulch to establish its roots and shoots.

It may need tidying up in Spring by cutting the old culms. 

If you wish to re-grow the bamboo, separate the stems from the base culms or re-grow using the culm cuttings.

Fargesia Murielae Bamboo Info

There are currently as many as 86 Fergasia bamboo species, hybrids and natural bamboos, known to growers.


Fargesia robusta Campbell Germany
Image credit: Sylwia Hennek @OazaPalmy/Twitter

Each bamboo species is unique and prefers certain growing conditions. For example, the 12 common types of Fergasea Nitida listed below, come in all sorts of sizes, colours and heights.

There is a Fergasia bamboo plant that is fit for every garden.

Here is a list of some Fargesias that are common in the UK. You can get information about these Fargesias here at Garden Bamboo Plants (GBP).

  • 1. Fargesia murielae Angustissima
  • 2. Fargesia murielae Asian Wonder
  • 3. Fargesia murielae Blue Lizard
  • 4. Fargesia murielae Ivory Ibis
  • 5. Fargesia murielae Jumbo
  • 6. Fargesia murielae Lava
  • 7. Fargesia murielae Luca
  • 8. Fargesia murielae Nitida
  • 9. Fargesia murielae Maasai
  • 10. Fargesia murielae Red Zebra
  • 11. Fargesia murielae Simba
  • 12. Fargesia murielae Scabrida

To know the features and qualities of the popular bamboo plants, check out the  Fargesia Nitida Collection and Fargesia murielae Collection on Garden Bamboo Plants. 

Black Bamboo Plants for Sale UK

Black Bamboo nigra is an award-winning bamboo for its unique features. 

The RHS described it as ‘one of the most elegant bamboos, with polished, damson-black mature canes and dark green leaves.’

Black Bamboo is a standout. It does behave like clump-forming bamboo in parts of the UK where it's cooler.

Black Bamboo Plants for Sale UK

Here is where to buy clumping bamboo plantsWe listed some top UK Home and Garden retailers like Crocus and YouGarden.

Features of Black Bamboo Plants

  • Identification: Phyllostachys nigra, Black Bamboo nigra, running bamboo (behaves like clumping bamboo in cooler climate)
  • Site: Grow in full sun to partial shade.
  • Soil: Prefers moist but well-draining loamy soil.
  • Uses: Windbreak, pots and containers or individual plants.
  • Winter hardiness: -15 to - 20 degrees Celsius.
  • Height: Fast-growing plant, 4 – 6m.
  • Spread: Invasive bamboo
  • Foliage colour: Evergreen dark foliage all year round.
  • Culm colour: Ebony expresso black

Black Bamboo Stems

Black Bamboo nigra is a fast-growing bamboo, known to be an invasive variety of running bamboo. It is a spectacular bamboo with ebony dark black to matured expresso black stems.

At an average height of 4 – 5m at maturity, the black bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra) is a tall and slender arching bamboo variety, fully hardy to -20 degrees Celsius.

Bamboo Nigra is known as one of the most distinctive bamboos of the Phyllostachys group. There are different cultivars of black bamboo nigra. Check out the full collection on GBP Blog.

How to Propagate Black Bamboo Nigra

The three ways to propagate Black Bamboo are

  • seed propagation,
  • separation of the clump-base and
  • culm (stem) or rhizome (root) cuttings.

Bamboo seeds are often hard to buy near you because they do not flower regularly. The best way to propagate the black bamboo is by base separation or roots and culms cuttings.

Experiences of Propagating Bamboos

We tried the different ways of propagating bamboo and know that it requires a lot of prep and effort to get the bamboo growing. 

Yet, watching the germinating bamboo is often rewarding.

Black Bamboo Care

Although black bamboo is a low-maintenance plant, the new growths will require care and attention.

Beware that the slugs adore the tender new growths, they can widen them if left unprotected.

If you are propagating bamboo plants from rhizomes or culms cuttings or planting a recent purchase, protect the new growths by adding the slug killers.

Here is my YouTube video showing a 4-week-old bamboo attacked by slugs.

Grow Black Bamboo Plants UK

When growing the Black Bamboo Nigra, perhaps an important factor to consider is the invasiveness despite showing some common features of the clump-forming bamboo.

If you are growing bamboo in the garden, put it in an area where there is room to spread.

The old black bamboos will thrive in well-drained soil with high moisture and nutrients, but like most bamboos, they do not like compacted dry soils.

It will require re-potting when it outgrows the pot so if you want to keep it longer, use a large pot or container. As a rule of thumb, the size of the pot should be twice the size of the base clump.

If you see browning in the culms or the bamboo leaves turning yellow, check the soil. Here is an article on how to revive your bamboo plants in a case where there is a sign of distress.

Black Bamboo preferred sites

Although the Black Bamboo Nigra is an elegant variety, it is an invasive bamboo. As mentioned earlier, it requires a lot of space to grow.

The arching culms and evergreen dark leaves can spread 4 – 6m on average. It is important to take this into consideration when choosing a site to plant to grow the black bamboo nigra.

As a pointer, this peculiar bamboo is ideal as an individual plant in the garden or contained in large pots and containers for balconies and terraces.

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? 

best bamboo plants for screen UK

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.

Fargesia murielae Jumbo Umbrella Bamboo [Clump-forming]

Fargesia murielae Jumbo is a fast-growing, tall Umbrella Bamboo with evergreen foliage and light green culms. It grows well in contained spaces and likes sunny spots and partly shaded areas.

This clump-forming bamboo thrives in pots and containers, ideal for terraces, balconies and patios. 

Also an excellent choice for an individual plant or a garden centrepiece.

Fargesia murielae Jumbo for Sale

Standing Stone Bamboo is a beautiful ornamental bamboo, an ideal choice for tall-growing hedges or screens, or as an individual plant.

To buy Fargesia Murieliae Simba, here is where to buy clumping bamboo plantsWe listed some top UK Home and Garden retailers like Crocus and YouGarden.

Click on the link/s where you’ll be directed to top UK Bamboo Suppliers. 

You can check the latest prices before buying the bamboo that suits your budget. (Let us know if you have a particular choice of bamboo that we can help with).

Fargesia Bamboo Features

  • Identification: Fargesia murielae 'Jumbo', Umbrella Bamboo.
  • Foliage: Lime green, broad leaves.
  • Culm colour: Tall yellowish-green arching stems.
  • Height: 3 – 5m, fast-growing.
  • Spread: Clump-forming, non-spreading bamboo.
  • Use: Hedge, screen, individual plant.

Growth requirements

  • Site: Sun to part shade.
  • Soil: well-drained moist, loam or sand and clay.
  • Hardiness: - 15 degrees Celsius.

Grow Umbrella Bamboo Fargesia Murielae Jumbo 

Fargesia murielae Jumbo is one of the popular Umbrella Bamboo plants to grow in the mild temperate region including the UK. 

This clump-forming bamboo can grow to 5m, producing beautiful lime green leaves and greenish-yellow culms.

The Fargesia murielae Jumbo is, in fact, a very versatile plant fit for many purposes both indoor and outdoor. 

Its fast-growing nature makes it the best candidate among the Fargesia murielae variety for hedges and screens.

Arching stems and evergreen foliage gives the ‘umbrella’ effect when planted as an individual plant or as a garden centrepiece.

Jumbo Bamboo is not massive at all compared to other large bamboo plants. 

But it is a tall plant if you compare it to the Fergasia murielae and Fargesia nitida varieties. 

It is a well-behaved non-invasive bamboo, best for terraces, patios, small gardens and ceramic/clay pots and containers. Grow in spots where there is 4 - 5 hours of sunlight.

Nurture Fargesia murielae Bamboo Plants

Growing bamboo in a non-native climate requires care and protection, especially when they are newly planted.

Although bamboo plants are tolerant, there is a number of natural threats. Mitigating these early threats is the best thing to do to protect the new growth. Here are the common dangers:

  • The new leaves, shoots and rhizomes tips are susceptible to slug attack.
  • Frozen soil can cause damage to the root hairs and rhizomes.
  •  Strong winds can damage the new culms.

Protect Fergasia Murielae Bamboo Plants

To avoid the natural threats to your bamboo plants, do these:

The Jumbo Bamboo plants do not need fertilisers if you are using nutrient-rich soil. Generally, bamboo plants thrive in well-aerated loam, sand and loose clay soil.

This clump-forming bamboo loves moist soil, but not waterlogged soil because the root hairs will decay very quickly in it, not what you’d want to see.

Propagate Fargesia murielae Jumbo

There are three ways to propagate bamboo plants:

  • from the seeds, or
  • by culm and rhizome cuttings, or
  • by culm separation.

20+ Fargesia Bamboo Varieties

Fargesia murielae ‘Jumbo’ (umbrella bamboo) is a tall arching, clump-forming bamboo, closely resembling Fargesia nitida varieties, but with yellowish-green stems.

These 5 Fergasia Bamboo plants have features similar to the Umbrella Bamboo ‘Jumbo’.

  1. Rufa Bamboo
  2. Nitida Black Pearl
  3. Robusta Campbell
  4. Nitida Jiuzhaigou Bamboo
  5. Fargesia Scabrida Asian Wonder Umbrella Bamboo

Umbrella Bamboo UK

We did extensive research on the popular bamboo plants in the UK and, carefully, gathered the qualities and features so that you can find the one that suits you.

Check out our collections of over 20 Fargesia murielae and Fargesia nitida bamboo plants on our Featured Bamboo page

These bamboo plants are amazing, they come in various sizes, shapes, colours, and formations.

The Fargesia clumping bamboo plants are non-spreading, forming clusters of rigorous stems and clumps. There are best for small hedges and privacy screens. 

They thrive in pots and containers, and in small spaces like the terrace and balconies.

Someone said, ‘there is just the right bamboo for every garden’. Study the features carefully and identify a clump-forming bamboo that is suitable for your garden.